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This is the first time that an insertion of this type of mi-
croelectrode has been performed with the help of a sur-
gical robot, as Professor Eduardo Fernández explains.
“The results are encouraging, since this technique allows
insertion in a more precise and less invasive way, which
improves clinical results and reduces the risks of compli-
cations”, says the expert. Dr Pablo González, coordinator
of the neurosurgery team that has performed the pro-
cedure, also emphasises that the robotic system allows
them to guide the insertion of the electrodes and perform
the surgery through a small millimetric hole, which avoids
having to perform a craniotomy or to open the skull.
The researchers explain that the robot allows to adjust
the position and orientation of the microelectrodes in real
time and in a very precise way, which reduces damage to
brain structures. To do this, they use a system similar to a
GPS that is based on images previously obtained by MRI
scan and computed tomography. The precision achieved
with this technique, minimally invasive, means that peo-
ple who participate in the study can be released early and
have much less discomfort than in a normal postopera-
tive period. In addition, it also has a positive impact on
the quality of visual perceptions induced by implanted
microelectrodes.
In the context of this research, UMH Professor Eduardo
Fernández emphasises that the development of bra-
in visual neuroprostheses is a clear need for the future,
since, unfortunately for many blind people, there are no
useful treatments or assistive devices. For example, pa-
tients with very advanced degenerative retinal diseases,
people with severe glaucoma, or people with optic nerve
disorders cannot benefit from the retinal prostheses that
are currently being developed. In these cases it is neces-
sary to send the information of the environment in front “The results are
of the blind person directly to the part of the brain that
processes vision. Preliminary results from the UMH group encouraging, since this
suggest that this approach could help provide a limited technique allows inser-
but useful vision of the environment, especially for tasks
such as orientation and mobility. However, it also clarifies tion in a more precise
that it is a very complex field and that progress must be and less invasive way,
made little by little and not create false expectations.
which improves clinical
The study has been funded by the Ministry of Science results and reduces the
and Innovation, and by the European Commission within
the H2020 programme, within the framework of the Neu- risks of complications”
raViper and ENTRAINVISION projects.

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