When the Visual Cortex Surprises Us
Clinical trial observes unexpected vision recovery in NAION patient after cortical microstimulation
A groundbreaking case highlights a profound visual recovery in a 65-year-old man with severe optic nerve damage due to bilateral non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy after intracortical microstimulation of the visual cortex. Despite being blind for nearly four years, the patient began perceiving light and motion shortly after receiving a cortical visual prosthesis, leading to significant improvements in visual function. This case suggests new potential for neuroplasticity and challenges the notion of irreversible blindness, pointing to the brain as a possible target for vision restoration.
1. Patient had profound optic nerve damage from NAION. 2. Used Utah Electrode Array for cortical stimulation. 3. Patient was blind for nearly 4 years prior to intervention. 4. Unexpected recovery of visual function occurred post-implantation. 5. Visual improvements included light perception and navigation skills. 6. Improvements were observed even after the implant was switched off. 7. Suggests the brain could be a target for vision recovery.
