Journal of Communication Disorders, Deaf Studies & Hearing Aids
Open Access

Implantable active middle ear devices for hearing loss

International Conference and Expo on Audiology and Hearing Devices

August 17-18, 2015 Birmingham, UK

Herman A Jenkins

Posters-Accepted Abstracts: Commun Disord Deaf Stud Hearing Aids

Abstract :

The past three decades have seen the advent of new implantable devices, with the cochlear implant, osseointegrated prostheses,
and active middle ear implants. These have shown many refinements and are currently utilized in many parts of the world as part
of the rehabilitation. Yet, much of this technology is in its infancy and many technical problems still exist. The author will present
a summary of these prostheses with an algorithm as to appropriate use, depending on anatomical changes and severity of hearing
loss. Particular attention will be placed on the active middle ear prostheses, with the potential uses in different types of hearing loss.
Comparison of human and animal studies show comparative results with acoustical through the middle ear and direct ossicular
and round window stimulations. These studies demonstrate the feasibility of a totally implantable device in a variety of situations,
based on human results of speech discrimination and animal electrophysiological measures. An algorithm for the clinician can be
developed for appropriate use. Cochlear implants are used in the severe to profound hearing loss, and recently in unilateral deafness.
The osseointegrated prostheses require significant cochlear reserve with only a moderate sensorineural loss to be effective in bone
conduction stimulation. The active middle ear prostheses can be used in the mild to severe range with direct drive of either the
ossicular chain or round window membrane. The rapid influx of hearing rehabilitation methodologies have allowed the otologic
physician and audiologist to improve hearing in essentially all types of deaf and hard-of-hearing patients, regardless of etiology or
severity.