Telescopic eye implant approved by the FDA

In the works for well over a year, and approved by the FDA a couple days ago, VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies’ implantable miniature telescope is intended for patients over 75 years of age who are suffering from end-stage macular degeneration.

As with any tricky new surgery, this one is not without risks, including the need for a corneal transplant due to the device’s size. According to CBC News, in clinical testing 75% of over 200 patients “had their vision improve from severe or profound impairment to moderate impairment,” and there are two more studies on the way: one will follow up with existing patients, while the other will outfit 770 new patients with the device. The cost? $15,000.

(via Engadget)