Safety and efficacy of semichronic suprachoroidal transretinal stimulation with femtosecond laser-induced porosity and smooth-surface electrodes

Abstract

We have been developing a retinal prosthesis based on suprachoroidal transretinal stimulation (STS). From a practical viewpoint, it is essential to confirm the safety and effectiveness of continuous electrical stimulation to the retina. In this study, the electrical stimulation of a rabbit retina for 8 h a day was conducted for one month, and its safety and efficacy were evaluated by histological, electrophysiological, and electrochemical methods. Results suggested that one month of semichronic electrical stimulation by STS was safe and effective.