Development of a Cortical Visual Neuroprosthesis for the Blind

Inclusion Criteria: * Participant is capable and willing to provide informed consent for participation in the trial. * Severe visual impairment with bilateral visual loss. * Greater than 18 years of age. * General health: excellent. * Following a general physical and neurological examination, patient must have normal serum electrolytes, C-reactive protein, complete blood count and PT and PTT. * No history of stroke, seizure, coagulopathy, cardiac arrhythmias or ischemia, pulmonary, hepatic or renal disease, nor transmissible viruses such as hepatitis or HIV. * Stable dose of current regular medication for at least four weeks prior to trial entry. * Able to perform the study during the full time period of up to 6 months. Special consideration will be given to patients with (1) detailed medical histories, including documentation of the onset, mechanism and evolution of the blindness; (2) lower risks associated with surgery; and (3) no psychiatric disorders or other mental disabilities. Exclusion Criteria: * Age \<18 or \>70. * Period of appropriate visual functions \< 12 years /lifetime. * For medical reasons: Individuals with a history of seizure disorders, coagulopathy, cardiac arrythmias or ischemia, pulmonary, hepatic or renal disease, and any other neurological disorder. Patients who carry a transmissible virus such as hepatitis and individuals with HIV-related neuropathies. * Vulnerable subject groups (e.g., pregnant women, prisoners, etc.). * Persons unable to give w…