The bionic eye (electronic visual prosthesis): A review

The concept of a visual prosthesis for the blind or partially sighted is no t a new one, indeed, for more than three decades this technology based trea tment for blindness has appeared imminent. Despite the concerted efforts of numerous physicians, scientists and engineers. the successful application of a useful visual prosthesis remains elusive. The present review will ende avour to describe past efforts, investigate the present state of the art an d indicate the obstacles that must be overcome in order to bring an electro nic visual prosthesis to fruition.