The Implantable Miniature Telescope and Quality of Life Improvements in Patients with End-Stage Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive, degenerative eye disease that leads to central vision loss in people older than 60. End-stage AMD, for which there is no cure, is the leading cause of blindness in highincome countries. Often underappreciated by physicians, AMD is an important public health problem as patients can experience significant emotional distress, reduced cognitive function and a decrease in quality of life from depression, isolation, reduced mobility, and independence. These patients are more likely to suffer from falls and injuries, which may result in serious, life-threatening complications and significant medical costs. There are no medical interventions that can halt the visual outcome of end-stage AMD; patients can only make the best of the vision they have left through low-vision rehabilitation and external devices and tools. In 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the implantable miniature telescope (IMT; VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies, Saratoga, CA) prosthesis for severely visually impaired patients with bilateral end-stage AMD. Patients with no other treatment options may have improved quality of life after implantation due to visual gains, increased mobility and independence, and improved overall function.