Surgical Roundtable Case 4: Implanting a Subretinal Photovoltaic Prosthesis

Frank Brodie, MD, MBA, presents the surgical technique for subretinal placement of the PRIMA implant, an investigational therapy for advanced geographic atrophy.

By: Christina Y. Weng, MD, MBA, Frank Brodie, MD, MBA, Mrinali Gupta, MD, FASRS, Nimesh A. Patel, MD

Retinal Physician July 1, 2026 Vol 23, Issue July-August 2026 Page(s): 8

Clinical Report: Surgical Roundtable Case 4: Implanting a Subretinal Photovoltaic Prosthesis

Overview

The PRIMA subretinal implant is an investigational therapy for patients with advanced geographic atrophy (GA). The surgical technique involves subretinal placement of a photovoltaic device.

Background

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a leading cause of vision loss in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Current treatment options are limited, making innovative approaches like the PRIMA subretinal implant important for vision restoration.

Data Highlights

The PRIMAvera trial reported that 80% of patients with 20/400 vision or worse could read letters and numbers after implantation of the PRIMA device.

Key Findings

The PRIMA implant is a subretinal photovoltaic device designed for patients with advanced GA.
In the PRIMAvera trial, improvements in central visual function were observed at 12 months post-implantation.
The implant utilizes infrared goggles to stimulate surviving inner retinal neurons.
Controlled subretinal bleb creation is crucial for safe implant insertion.
No instances of buttonholing were reported in the trial involving 38 patients.

Clinical Implications

The PRIMA subretinal implant is an investigational therapy for vision restoration in patients with GA. Surgeons should be aware of the unique surgical techniques required for implantation.

Conclusion

The PRIMA subretinal photovoltaic prosthesis is an investigational therapy for restoring vision in patients with advanced geographic atrophy.

PentaVision

Retinal Physician