Orion® Visual Cortical Prosthesis System

A cortical approach to creating useful visual perception

Orion is an investigational artificial-vision system in development for patients with profound blindness caused by damage to the eyes or optic nerves.

System overview

Designed to bypass damaged eyes and optic nerve, and stimulate the visual cortex

Orion uses a camera and external processor to convert visual information into patterns of electrical stimulation delivered to the brain’s visual cortex.

The goal is useful visual perception: spots or patterns of light that may support orientation and visual tasks rather than recreate normal sight.

Illustration showing Orion components positioned in relation to the skull and brain

Illustrative view of Orion component placement; not a surgical image.

Four connected parts of the experience

1

Camera captures
the scene

The camera on the wearable glasses gathers visual information from the scene.

2

Processor converts
the image

External software converts selected visual information into a programmed pattern of stimulation.

3

System transmits
wirelessly

The system wirelessly transmits power and data to the implanted electronics.

4

Array stimulates
the visual cortex

The array stimulates selected cortical areas, creating perceived points or patterns of light.

System components

Wearable and implanted components work as one system

Orion camera glasses and external video processor
External system

Camera and
video processor

A camera on the glasses captures visual information, which the external processor converts into stimulation patterns.

Implanted electronics and receiver coil
Implant

Receiver and
implanted electronics

The implanted receiver and electronics receive power and data wirelessly and communicate with the cortical-surface array.

Enhanced illustration of the Orion cortical electrode array
Cortical interface

Sixty-electrode
surface array

Sixty independently controlled electrodes deliver programmed electrical micro-pulses to selected areas of the visual cortex.

An illustration of the wearable experience

This rendering shows how Orion’s glasses and external processor may be worn.

Illustrative rendering of a person wearing Orion glasses

Clinical foundation

Recently completed six-year Early Feasibility Study

Six patients received Orion implants in the U.S. Early Feasibility Study. Five of the original six completed three-year assessments, and Orion has FDA Breakthrough Device designation.

Study follow-upSix yearsRecently completed long-term follow-up in the U.S. Early Feasibility Study.
Visual perception5 of 5Significantly better square-localization and direction-of-motion performance with Orion on.
Functional assessment4 patientsPositive or mildly positive Functional Low-Vision Observer Rated Assessment results.
Safety recordSince 2018No serious safety issues since one SAE in 2018 (which resolved safely).

View clinical development View the ClinicalTrials.gov record

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orion available today?

No. Orion is an investigational system in development and is not approved for commercial sale.

What did the Early Feasibility Study evaluate?

The study evaluated long-term safety, visual perception, visual acuity and functional outcomes associated with cortical visual stimulation.

What is Orion’s regulatory status?

Orion has been granted FDA Breakthrough Device designation. It remains investigational and is not approved for commercial sale.

How is Orion related to Argus II?

Argus II provides historical device and clinical experience, while Orion moves the stimulation target from the retina to the visual cortex.