Benefits and risks

Information for the public

When NICE looked at the evidence, it decided that there was not enough evidence to know how well this procedure works or how safe it is. The 7 studies that NICE looked at involved a total of 129 patients but some patients may have taken part in more than 1 study.

Generally, the studies showed small improvements in vision. Some people were better able to recognise objects, light, or direction of movement.

The studies showed that the risks of the procedure included:

damage to the retina during or after the procedure, that needed more surgery to repair
the staples holding the implant in place needing replacing within a few days of the procedure
problems with the conjunctiva (a thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye) after the procedure, that were successfully treated
infection in the eye, that was treated with antibiotics
low pressure in the eye that needed more surgery. 1 person had to have the implant removed.

If you want to know more about the studies, see the guidance. Ask your health professional to explain anything you don't understand.