Visual impairment is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. Despite efforts to improve the quality of life for visually impaired people, many still struggle with basic tasks on a daily basis.

Fortunately, advances in technology have made it possible for visually impaired people to see the world in ways they never thought possible. One of these technologies is the Argus II.

What is the Argus II?

The Argus II, also known as the retinal implant, is a breakthrough technology that was developed to help restore some vision in people with certain types of blindness.

The device is designed to help improve the perception of light and dark, movement, and basic shapes and patterns, giving users a greater degree of independence and freedom.

How does it work?

The Argus II consists of a small camera, a transmitter that sits on a pair of eyeglasses, and an implanted electrode array, which is placed on the retina of the eye.

The camera captures images and sends the information to the transmitter, which then sends signals to the electrode array. These signals stimulate the remaining healthy cells in the retina, creating images that the brain can interpret.

Who is it for?

The Argus II is intended for people with certain types of blindness, specifically those with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

RP is an inherited condition that affects the retina, while AMD is a progressive disease that affects the central part of the retina. Both conditions can cause severe vision loss, making everyday activities difficult or impossible. The Argus II can help restore some level of vision and improve quality of life for these individuals.

How effective is it?

Although the Argus II cannot fully restore vision, it has been shown to significantly improve visual function in many patients.

In clinical trials, patients were able to identify basic shapes, locate objects, and navigate rooms more easily than before receiving the implant. The device has also been shown to improve overall quality of life, as users regained a greater degree of independence.

What are the risks?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with implanting the Argus II. The most common complications include infection, inflammation, bleeding, and retinal detachment.

There is also a small risk of damage to the electrode array or to the surrounding tissue. However, the benefits of the device have been shown to outweigh these risks, making it a viable option for many people with certain types of blindness.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the Argus II can vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s insurance coverage and the specific hospital or clinic where the procedure is performed.

According to the manufacturer, the total cost of the device and the implantation surgery can range from $150,000 to $200,000. While the cost may seem high, the Argus II has been shown to provide significant benefits for visually impaired individuals, making it a worthwhile investment for many.

Conclusion

The Argus II is a breakthrough technology that has the potential to significantly improve the lives of visually impaired individuals.

While it cannot fully restore vision, it can provide improved perception of light and motion, allowing users to better navigate their surroundings and improve their quality of life. While there are risks associated with the procedure, the benefits have been shown to outweigh these risks, making it a viable option for many.