A New Electrode Device for Artificial Vision by Direct Optic Nerve Electrode (AV-DONE)

Abstract

Purpose: : We have developed an artificial vision by direct optic nerve electrode (AV-DONE) and reported the results for patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The purpose of this trial is to develop a new electrode device and to investigate its safety and efficacy.

Methods: : A new electrode device composed of 7 Teflon-coated platinum-iridium wires with diameters of 50 µm, one platinum-iridium bar with a diameter of 100 µm, and cylindrical silicone board with a diameter of 2.0 mm was developed. The electrode was used for implantation into the optic disc of a patient with RP, with a visual acuity of light perception, and electrical stimulation was applied through each electrode. Platinum materials protrude through the board to implant into the optic disc. After phacoemulsification and vitrectomy, the electrode device was inserted into optic nerve disc at once using a vitreoretinal forceps. Approval from the Institutional Review Board Committee and informed consent were obtained for this case.

Results: : The device was easily handled in the vitreous cavity and the tip of the handling bar and 5 of 7 electrodes could be placed into the optic disc with a single insertion. The patient could perceive phosphenes with electrical stimulation through each of the 5 electrodes the next day and 9 months after the implantation. No complications were found during surgery and the follow-up period.

Conclusions: : The new electrode device was developed for AV-DONE. This device could be used safely and effectively for AV-DONE trial.

Keywords: optic nerve • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: systems/equipment/techniques • retinitis