Blind Man Able to Read With Visual Prosthesis System
November 30th, 2009Via: Times Online:
A blind man fitted with a “bionic eye” in a trial at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital has delighted doctors by being able to read simple words.
The implant uses a camera mounted on spectacles to send wireless signals to nerves that control sight. The brain then decodes the image.
Peter Lane, 51, from Stretford, who began to lose his sight in his twenties, is one of 32 people taking part in an international trial.
Doctors have been stunned by his progress. The device allows him to see the outline of objects as a series of dots of lights. Mr Lane said: “It was an amazing feeling after not being able to see anything to be seeing letters and words on a special screen. I was there reading dad, mat, cat.
