‘Bionic Eye’ Successfully Transplanted in Britain

Two blind patients in Britain became the first new owners of an artificial electronic retinal device last week.

The artificial retina enables patients to discriminate rudimentary images of motion, light and dark.

“The devices were implanted successfully in both patients and they are recovering well from the operations . It is very special to be part of a program developing a totally new type of treatment for patients who would otherwise have no chance of visual improvement."

Surgeons hope this implanted version of the technology could be available to NHS patients within three to five years.

US surgeons were able to fit the two British patients with even more advanced devices than the one given to Mrs. Moorfoot.

“It is very, very good news that devices have been developed, it is very good news that in experimental trials some individuals have had these inserted,” he said.