The world's first bionic eye implant has been carried out on an 80-year-old man in the UK.

Ray Flynn, who underwent a four-hour operation at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, has age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

AMD affects central vision, making it blurry. Central vision is necessary for everyday activities such as reading, driving and watching television.

It is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 50 in Ireland, with over 7,000 new cases developing here every year.

During his operation, Mr Flynn was implanted with a device that converts video images from a miniature camera installed in his glasses.

He was fitted with the device last month and it was activated on July 1. Prof Paulo Staga, who led the operation, has said he is delighted with the results so far.

"Mr Flynn's progress is truly remarkable. He is seeing the outline of people and objects very effectively," he commented.

Images captured by the camera in Mr Flynn's glasses are turned into small electrical pulses that are transmitted wirelessly to electrodes on the surface of his retina. There, they stimulate the remaining cells and replicate patterns of light for the brain.

As time passes, Mr Flynn will learn to interpret these patterns, regaining his vision.

"This technology is revolutionary and changes patients' lives - restoring some functional vision and helping them to live more independently. As far as I am concerned, the first results of the trial are a total success, and I look forward to treating more patients," Prof Stanga said.

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