A GROUND-BREAKING eye implant has enabled three blind patients to see.

Sky News reported that within days of being fitted with the electronic device in their retina, the German patients were able to see objects on a table, including a cup and saucer.

One was even able to read his own name.

British eye surgeon Robert MacLaren, who will lead the first UK trials of the device next year, said it was a significant advance.

"Until now this concept would have been considered only in the realms of science fiction," Professor MacLaren, from the Oxford Eye Hospital, said.

"What surprised all of us was just how much resolution you can get from the implant."

The device consists of an electronic plate just three millimeters square, coated with 1500 light-sensitive sensors.

Each sensor triggers an electronic pulse that stimulates nerves leading to the brain. Patients see a rough black and white image.

Lead researcher Professor Eberhart Zrenner said: "The visual functions of patients can in principle be restored to a degree sufficient for use in daily life.

"The level of vision is rudimentary but we're talking about making someone who is completely blind see well enough to walk around without a guide dog."

Read more about the bionic eye at Sky News