STAT+: ‘Cochlear implant for blindness’ debuts in Europe, could launch in U.S. in 2027

Startup unveils retinal implant for people with partial vision loss from macular degeneration A retinal implant, called PRIMA, developed by Science Corporation.Science Corporation Rose covers disability and mental health, and she helps write STAT’s daily Morning Rounds newsletter. Confidential tips can be sent to Rose on Signal at rosebroderick.11. Europeans can now receive a device that can partially restore their vision loss. Americans may not have to wait long to get it, either. Science Corporation announced Wednesday that European regulators had approved the commercial sale of the startup’s retinal implant that improves eyesight for patients with age-related macular degeneration in their central vision, enough to read books and road signs more clearly. “We have a cochlear implant for vision now,” said Science founder and CEO Max Hodak. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — and get additional analysis of the technologies disrupting health care — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Disability in Health Care Reporting Fellow Rose covers disability and mental health, and she helps write STAT’s daily Morning Rounds newsletter. Confidential tips can be sent to Rose on Signal at rosebroderick.11.