PRIMA Implant Shows Clinical Potential

Clinical Trial Download: Early PRIMAvera trial data suggest that subretinal photovoltaic implantation is a viable approach to restoring central vision in GA.

By: Frank Brodie, MD, MBA, Nitish Mehta, MD, Yasha Modi, MD

Retinal Physician May 1, 2026 Vol 23, Issue May-June 2026 Page(s): 21-22, 24

Clinical Report: PRIMA Implant Shows Clinical Potential

Overview

The PRIMA subretinal photovoltaic implant demonstrates significant potential for restoring central vision in patients with geographic atrophy (GA) due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In a clinical study, 81% of participants achieved clinically meaningful visual improvement at 12 months, with a mean improvement of 0.51 logMAR.

Background

Geographic atrophy (GA) represents a significant challenge in the management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with current treatments primarily focused on preserving remaining vision rather than restoring it. The introduction of device-based approaches, such as the PRIMA implant, offers a novel strategy for visual restoration in patients with severe vision loss. Understanding the efficacy and safety of such devices is crucial for advancing treatment options in this patient population.

Data Highlights

Outcome	Result
Participants with meaningful improvement (≥0.2 logMAR)	81%
Mean improvement in logMAR	0.51 (25.5 letters)
Maximum improvement in logMAR	1.18 (59 letters)
Final visual acuity	~20/400
Subjects using device for reading at home	84%

Key Findings

The PRIMA implant is a 2x2 mm silicone microarray with 378 photovoltaic cells.
It is designed for subretinal placement in patients with intact inner retinal layers.
Patients wear augmented reality glasses that project images onto the implant, stimulating bipolar cells.
In the study, 32 out of 38 patients completed the 12-month follow-up.
The device allows for minimally invasive implantation and higher display resolutions compared to previous devices.
Adverse events and surgical complications require careful monitoring before widespread implementation.

Clinical Implications

The PRIMA implant represents a promising advancement in the treatment of GA, potentially enabling patients to regain functional vision. Clinicians should consider the implications of this technology in their practice, particularly in discussions about treatment options for patients with severe vision loss.

Conclusion

The PRIMA photovoltaic implant shows significant potential for restoring vision in patients with geographic atrophy, marking an important step forward in retinal prosthetic technology. Continued evaluation of its safety and efficacy will be essential as it moves toward broader clinical use.

PentaVision

Retinal Physician