Scientists at the University Hospital of Bonn have developed the revolutionary PRIMA implant, which for the first time in history enables the restoration of functional central vision in patients with blindness caused by geographic atrophy (an advanced form of macular degeneration).[1][3] The implant consists of a 2×2 mm wireless photovoltaic chip that is surgically placed under the degenerated retina and specialized camera glasses that project near-infrared light onto the implant.[1][3] The system acts as a replacement for the lost photoreceptors – light is converted into electrical signals that stimulate the remaining retinal cells and restore the flow of visual information to the brain.[3] In a clinical trial, 80% of patients achieved a significant improvement in vision of at least 10 letters on the ETDRS chart within 12 months.[5] Patients could read letters, numbers and words for the first time after losing their sight.[5] Adverse effects occurred mainly in the first two months after surgery, and 95% of them resolved within two months.[4] The safety of the implant was confirmed by the fact that no serious adverse effects occurred and the patients' peripheral vision remained unchanged.[3][5] A regulatory body in Europe has recommended the implant for approval, and in the US the FDA approval process is underway.[3]