Despite the preliminary nature of the experiments, the stakes are quite high for this rapidly evolving field. Ophthalmologist Mark Humayun, who leads the John Hopkins group, is skeptical about the efficacy of Chow's subretinal approach and is concerned that failure could reflect negatively on all retina chip designs. The three surgeries are part of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved safety and feasibility study, which allows implanting the new devices in up to 10 blind volunteers. The primary purpose of the trial is to determine whether the eye will tolerate the implants and to test surgical techniques. So far, Chow reports, the patients have recovered well and are all at home.
None have any discomfort, and so far show no signs of infection or rejection.
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