New Insight: The eSight Go with Roland Mattern, eSight Director of Marketing

Welcome back to New Insight with Veeral Sheth, MD!

In this episode of New Insight, host Veeral Sheth, MD, MBA, director of clinical research at University Retina and Macula Associates, speaks with Roland Mattern, director of marketing for eSight, about the development and clinical potential of the eSight Go – a fifth-generation wearable low-vision device designed to enhance central visual function in patients with conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and Stargardt’s disease.

Mattern recounted the story of eSight, which began as an engineer’s effort to help his sisters living with Stargardt’s disease. That original version evolved into a sophisticated device that uses a high-resolution camera, dual microdisplays, and proprietary software to project enhanced images onto the user’s functional retinal tissue. The eSight Go offers improved resolution, reduced lag, longer battery life, and a streamlined structure, preserving peripheral vision and optimizing cosmetic appearance.

The conversation explained the importance of mobility and independence in low-vision rehabilitation. Mattern underscored the importance of preserving peripheral vision for spatial navigation while using the enhanced central image only when needed. This hybrid approach enables users to perform daily activities, from reading and facial recognition to cooking and commuting, without relying solely on caregivers.

Sheth and Mattern explained why advanced visual aids like eSight often fall outside the awareness of retina specialists, despite high patient demand. Mattern explained eSight’s strategy to close this gap through conference presence, direct collaboration with practices, and a physician-friendly telehealth referral model. This approach includes free device trials and virtual coaching from experienced eSight Go users to help patients integrate the technology effectively and safely into their lives.

Mattern also noted the next steps for eSight and the eSight Go, highlighting scaling efforts such as clinical trials, peer education, and the expansion of a national sales force. Each of these advancements is aimed at broadening access to a device which could restore meaningful visual function and independence to patients traditionally underserved by conventional therapies.

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