Patient Preferences for the PRIMA Retinal Prosthesis for Vision Restoration for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An International Survey Study

Purpose: To gauge age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patient opinions on the potential acceptability of the PRIMA neurostimulation device for partial vision restoration during activities of daily living (ADLs). Methods: An international multisite survey study was completed by 196 visually impaired AMD individuals online through a foundation or society (United States, United Kingdom) or via telephone or in-person interviews (Italy, France, Germany) to inquire about ADLs for which retinal implant systems could potentially offer assistance. Results: A high level of interest ("very likely") to use a vision restoration device was reported by approximately half of the respondents for completing documents, recognizing people, hobbies, identifying money, reading street signs and store names, and seeing signs in public. The odds of being very likely to use a vision restoration device for these tasks were not statistically significantly related to whether the participant had partial or severe sight loss. Odds of being very likely to use it for completing documents or reading mail (odds ratio = 2.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-4.5; P = 0.013) were significantly greater among those who had stopped doing these tasks or relied on others. The majority (66.5%) indicated that they would be comfortable wearing the vision restoration glasses around others. Participation in vision rehabilitation was acceptable if the training duration was not excessive. Conclusions: AMD respondents with varying vision loss indicated interest and acceptability of a vision restoration device for ADLs. Translational Relevance: In support of future research and development efforts, AMD respondents endorsed high levels of willingness to use a vision restoration system involving a surgically implanted device and electronic glasses.