Article
First Belgian Argus II retinal prosthesis implantation and rehabilitation: one-year outcomes
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Published: | December 10, 2019 |
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Objective: To evaluate the surgical procedure and rehabilitation outcomes of the first Belgian Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System implantation in a patient with end-stage retinitis pigmentosa.
Materials and methods: Surgical procedure included suture of extraocular components onto the sclera, and coverage of the coil and antenna by a scleral flap. A scleral graft was sutured over the sclerotomy made to introduce the electrode array. Tacking and positioning of the electrode array was monitored by intraoperative Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Monthly assessments included complete ophthalmic examination, OCT and fundoscopy. Two weeks post-surgery, the device was activated. The patient underwent (n=11) rehabilitation and (n=10) orientation and mobility (O&M) sessions.
Results: No serious adverse events were reported. The distance between the electrode array and the retina surface remained stable (175 µm). During rehabilitation, the patient mastered the micro-scanning technique (e.g. reading letters), and the macro-scanning technique (e.g. seeing doorframes). During O&M sessions, the patient could recognise highly-contrasting shapes (e.g. zebra crossing).
Discussion: The implant is well tolerated and the electrode array position remains stable. The patient has improved visual function, allowing to perform several visual tasks.