gms | German Medical Science

Objective: In many of the techniques for artificial vision with intraocular implants in almost blind humans digital data (which are then converted to electrical data/impulses) has to be transmitted to the retina. For that reason wires are implanted from the outside of the eye across the eye to the retina. On the other hand Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) is the name of a technology for wireless data transmission using visible light or infrared radiation. The use of LiFi may enhance the transmission of lighting data from environment to the retina without using wires.

Materials and Methods: Techniques of conventional retinal chip implant surgery for in blind people with wires are compared with possible Li-Fi transmission of illumination data without wires.

Results: LED light source(s) may be fixed in the glasses worn by the blind patient, which transmit the illumination data from environment to the chip or sensor in the eye. Compared to other wireless communication (like WiFi) standards, Li-Fi has significant advantages like fast wireless data transmission, real-time communication, no interference with other sources of the need for line of sight. Another advantage is that the wavelengths used in Li-Fi are physiologic for the eye tissues.

Discussion: Li-Fi use may be a good alternative for eye sensor/chip implants for artificial vision in blind humans.