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Implantable Eye Telescope Finally FDA Approved

Posted by samzenpus on from the all-the-better-to-see-you-with dept.

kkleiner writes "A telescopic implant that fits directly into the eye to treat certain kinds of blindness has finally received FDA approval for use in the US after more than five years of waiting. The Implantable Miniature Telescope (IMT) is used to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects millions around the world. For many, the center part of their vision becomes blurred or completely dark. The IMT is surgically implanted into the cornea and acts to expand an incoming image onto the peripheral parts of the retina that are undamaged by AMD. The commercial version of the IMT is called CentraSight and is in development by VisionCare Inc. There are likely hundreds of thousands of potential patients in the US alone who may be able to have their vision partially restored now that CentraSight has garnered FDA approval."

4 of 112 comments (clear)

  1. I feel gipped... by cobryce · · Score: 5, Insightful

    I know I'm not the only one expecting a device that would allow me to enjoy some backyard astronomy anytime, anywhere. I am very disappointed.

  2. Life Imitates Ghost In the Shell by bmajik · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Replacement:

    Arms - Check
    Legs - Check
    Heart - Check
    Hands - getting there
    Eyes - getting there

    --
    My opinions are my own, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer.
  3. Better Than Nothing by Doc+Ruby · · Score: 4, Insightful

    This implant is a lot better than going blind.

    But really what we want is stemcell therapies that restore the macula to a fully working retina without further complication. Especially if the stemcells come from the patient themself, without requiring a separate donor, or tissue banks.

    --

    --
    make install -not war

  4. Re:Meh by east+coast · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Optical zoom only please. None of that digial zoom bullshit.

    --
    Dedicated Cthulhu Cultist since 4523 BC.