Overview of Progress on the Boston Retinal Prosthesis

Abstract

 

Purpose:

 

This work is related to the efforts of the Boston Retinal ImplantProject to develop a sub-retinal prosthesis to restore visionto the blind. The goal of this presentation is to provide anoverview of the status of the emerging, Boston-based, human-qualityretinal prosthesis.

 

Methods:

 

The Boston device includes a custom-designed ASIC and a hermeticTi case to support 200+ channels. Elements have been testedin vitro, and the entire embodiment has been implanted into3 mini-pigs, following 20 implant surgeries of our former 16-channeldevice. Custom surgical tools were developed for the new implants.

 

Results:

 

The ASIC is in final layout, and human safety protocols weredeveloped. The hermetic package for the device is complete.In vivo testing results show the secondary receiving coil isless susceptible to erosion than previously observed, and thetitanium case is well tolerated. A modified 2-step array insertionprocess also evolved to increase the flexibility of array placement.

 

Conclusions:

 

Advancements in circuit design, packaging, and surgical toolsand technique have put the development of the 200+ channel Bostonretinal prosthesis on pace for in vivo validation of functionby late 2011.  

 

 

Keywords: retina • neuro-ophthalmology: cortical function/rehabilitation • quality of life