Bionic Technology

For decades, research scientists and engineers have pursued the goal of using mechanical and electronic technologies to restore lost functions to people with damaged, paralyzed or missing body parts. Today scientists are getting closer to the goal of being able to restore vision to the blind, restore movement to paralyzed body parts, and treat bodily dysfunctions. Larry Mantle takes a look at the latest developments on several bionic technology fronts with experts including Dr. Gerald E. Loeb, director of the Medical Device Development Facility, Alfred E. Mann Institute for Biomedical Engineering, USC, Dr. Mark S. Humayun, professor of Opthalmology and Associate Director of Research at the Doheny Retina Institute at USC, David L. Gollaher, President and CEO of California Healthcare Institute, and actor Christopher Reeve.