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Ray J, Wanees E, Dawoud MM, Abu Elnaga H, Abdelhafez TA. Evaluating the effectiveness of bone conduction hearing implants in rehabilitation of hearing loss. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2023; 280:3987-3996. [PMID: 36813860 PMCID: PMC9946869 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-023-07889-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Implantable hearing devices are indicated for candidates who could not benefit from conventional hearing aids. This study aimed at evaluating their effectiveness in rehabilitation of hearing loss. METHODS This study included patients who received bone conduction implants at Tertiary Teaching Hospitals, between December 2018 and November 2020. Data were collected prospectively, and patients were assessed both subjectively using COSI and GHABP questionnaires and objectively using bone conduction and air conduction thresholds, unaided and aided free field speech thresholds. Outcomes of transcutaneous (tBCHD) and percutaneous (pBCHD) bone conduction hearing devices were compared as well as outcomes of unilateral versus bilateral fitting. Postoperative skin complications were recorded and compared. RESULTS A total of seventy patients were included, thirty-seven of them were implanted with tBCHD and thirty-three with pBCHD. Fifty-five patients were fitted unilaterally compared to 15 bilateral fitting. Preoperative mean of bone conduction (BC) of the overall sample was 23.27 ± 10.91 dB, the Air conduction (AC) mean was 69.27 ± 13.75 dB. There was significant difference between unaided free field speech score (88.51% ± 7.92) and the aided score (96.79 ± 2.38) with P value = 0.00001. The postoperative assessment using GHABP showed a benefit score mean of 70.95 ± 18.79, patient satisfaction score mean of 78.15 ± 18.39. The disability score improved significantly from a mean of 54.08 ± 15.26 to residual score of only 12.50 ± 10.22 with P < 0.00001 postoperatively. There was significant improvement in all parameters of COSI questionnaire following fitting. Comparison of pBCHDs vs tBCHDs showed a non-significant difference regarding FF speech as well as GHABP parameters. Comparison of the post-operative skin complications was in favor of tBCHDs as (86.5%) of the patients had normal skin postoperatively, compared to 45.5% of patients with pBCHDs devices. Bilateral implantation showed significant improvement of FF speech scores, GHABP satisfaction score, as well as COSI score results. CONCLUSION Bone conduction hearing devices are effective solution for rehabilitation of hearing loss. Bilateral fitting yields satisfactory outcomes in suitable candidates. Transcutaneous devices carry significantly lower skin complication rates compared to percutaneous devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaydip Ray
- Regional Department of Neurotology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
| | - Essam Wanees
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Moustafa Mohamed Dawoud
- Regional Department of Neurotology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK.
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia, Egypt.
- Otolaryngology Department, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Heba Abu Elnaga
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Tarek A Abdelhafez
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Menoufia Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia, Egypt
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Yang W, Zhao X, Chai R, Fan J. Progress on mechanisms of age-related hearing loss. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1253574. [PMID: 37727326 PMCID: PMC10505809 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1253574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is a common cause of hearing loss in elderly people worldwide. It typically presents as progressive, irreversible, and usually affects the high frequencies of hearing, with a tremendous impact on the quality of life. Presbycusis is a complex multidimensional disorder, in addition to aging, multiple factors including exposure to noise, or ototoxic agents, genetic susceptibility, metabolic diseases and lifestyle can influence the onset and severity of presbycusis. With the aging of the body, its ability to clean up deleterious substances produced in the metabolic process is weakened, and the self-protection and repair function of the body is reduced, which in turn leads to irreversible damage to the cochlear tissue, resulting in the occurrence of presbycusis. Presently, oxidative stress (OS), mitochondrial DNA damage, low-grade inflammation, decreased immune function and stem cell depletion have been demonstrated to play a critical role in developing presbycusis. The purpose of this review is to illuminate the various mechanisms underlying this age-related hearing loss, with the goal of advancing our understanding, prevention, and treatment of presbycusis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolong Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Renjie Chai
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Advanced Institute for Life and Health, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiangang Fan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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3
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Hake AE, Kitsopoulos P, Grosh K. Design of Piezoelectric Dual-Bandwidth Accelerometers for Completely Implantable Auditory Prostheses. IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL 2023; 23:13957-13965. [PMID: 38766647 PMCID: PMC11101158 DOI: 10.1109/jsen.2023.3276271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
For the last 20 years, researchers have developed accelerometers to function as ossicular vibration sensors in order to eliminate the external components of hearing aid and cochlear implant systems. To date, no accelerometer has met all of the stringent performance requirements necessary to function in this capacity. In this work, we present an accelerometer design with an equivalent noise floor less than 20 phon equal-loudness-level over a 0.1-8 kHz bandwidth in a package small enough to be implanted in the middle ear. Our approach uses a dual-bandwidth (two sensing elements) microelectromechanical systems piezoelectric accelerometer, sized using an area-minimization process based on an experimentally-validated analytical model of the sensor. The resulting bandwidth of the low-frequency sensing element is 0.1-1.25 kHz and that of the high-frequency sensing element is 1.25-8 kHz. These sensing elements fit within a silicon frame that is 795 μm × 778 μm, which can reasonably be housed along with a required integrated circuit in a 2.2 mm × 2.7 mm × 1 mm package. The estimated total mass of the packaged system is approximately 14 mg. This dual-bandwidth MEMS sensor fills a technological gap in current completely implantable auditory prosthesis research and development by enabling a device capable of meeting physical and performance specifications needed for use in the middle ear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E Hake
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA, and is now with the Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Department at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Panagiota Kitsopoulos
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Karl Grosh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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Barbara M, Margani V, Volpini L, Filippi C, Covelli E, Monini S, Elfarargy HH. On the battery life of a totally implantable active middle ear device: a retrospective study in a single implanting center. Acta Otolaryngol 2023; 143:6-11. [PMID: 36594700 DOI: 10.1080/00016489.2022.2161625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Totally-implantable active middle ear devices (AMED) rely on a non-rechargeable battery encased with the implantable sound processor that needs to be replaced with a minor surgical procedure after its depletion. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the most significant factors affecting the implant's battery life. MATERIALS AND METHODS The implanted subjects (29 patients) were divided into three groups; group A with 17 patients who underwent one battery change surgery; group B with ten patients who underwent two battery changes; and group C with two patients and three surgeries. The battery life was put in correlation with several variables, including daily use and the auditory threshold. RESULTS The battery life ranged from 26 to 67 months, with a mean of 48.93 ± 13.47. Pearson's correlation coefficient revealed that the battery life was statistically correlated only with the mean post-implantation bone conduction thresholds (p-value <.0001). CONCLUSIONS Although the non-rechargeable battery system of the AMED under study overcomes the drawbacks of daily charging, it needs to be surgically changed after its depletion. The different rates of battery life were shown to mainly depend on the post-implantation BC thresholds, which in some cases showed a deterioration concerning the pre-implanting values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Barbara
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sant Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Margani
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sant Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Volpini
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Chiara Filippi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sant Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Covelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sant Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Monini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sant Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Haitham H Elfarargy
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
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Casazza GC, Kesser BW. Modern Advances in Bone Conduction–Hearing Devices. CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40136-022-00430-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Monini S, Filippi C, Salerno G, Barbara M. Long-Term Follow-Up of the Auditory Threshold After a Fully Implantable Middle Ear Implant. Front Neurol 2022; 13:834402. [PMID: 35222257 PMCID: PMC8866237 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.834402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A fully implantable active middle ear device has been proposed and indicated for the rehabilitation of bilateral moderate or moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss, assuming it would overcome the disadvantages of a conventional hearing aid. The indications have further been extended to severe or severe-to-profound forms of hearing loss in the case of an expected limited or null efficacy of hearing aids. While the literature has highlighted several positive aspects of the device, including a better quality of life related to its invisibility, the improvement of auditory and perceptual functions has not been controlled for throughout a long period of follow-up. The present study aimed to verify the behavior of the auditory threshold, especially the bone conduction (BC) component, in the implanted ear in a group of implantees affected by initial bilateral symmetric hearing loss of different severity grades. The BC threshold was assessed preoperatively at activation and at the last follow-up (ranging from 4 to 12 years) in the implanted ear, and preoperatively and at the last follow-up in the contralateral ear, to monitor eventual deteriorated values in both ears over time. The pure tone average (PTA; 250–4,000 Hz), speech reception threshold (SRT) and the maximum word recognition score as a percentage (% WRS) and in dB HL were measured in the implanted ear to verify the efficacy of the device after the first fitting at device activation. A significant worsening of the BC threshold with respect to the baseline threshold was noticed during further follow-up. When comparing the implanted ear with the contralateral ear, a significant worsening of the bone PTA was assessed in the former with respect to the contralateral ear. Despite the worsened hearing found in the implanted ears, the beneficial gains in PTA and speech audiometry observed at the first activation remained constant at the follow-up, thus showing an extension of the efficacy of this device in aiding those with up to the most severe forms of sensorineural hearing loss.
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Liu Z, Liu H, Wang J, Yang J, Hao J, Yang S. Analysis of design parameters of round-window stimulating type electromagnetic transducer by a nonlinear lumped parameter model of implanted human ear. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2022; 19:2453-2470. [PMID: 35240792 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2022113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Round-window stimulating transducer is a new solution to treat mixed hearing loss. To uncover the factors affecting the round-window stimulation's performance, we investigated the influence of four main design parameters of round-window stimulating type electromagnetic transducer. Firstly, we constructed a human ear nonlinear lumped parameter model and confirmed its validity by comparing the stapes responses predicted by the model with the experimental data. Following this, an electromagnetic transducer's mechanical model, which simulates the floating mass transducer, was built and coupled to the human ear model; thereby, we established a nonlinear lumped parameter model of implanted human ear under round-window stimulation and verified its reliability. Finally, based on this model, the influences of the four main design parameters, i.e., the excitation voltage, the electromechanical coupling coefficient, the support stiffness, and the preload force, were analyzed. The results show that the change of excitation voltage does not alter the system's natural frequency. Chaotic motion occurs when the electromechanical coupling coefficient is small. Meanwhile, the stapes displacement appears to increase firstly and then decrease with the increase of the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The increase of the support stiffness enlarges the resonance frequency of the stapes displacement and reduces the stapes displacement near the resonance frequency, deteriorating the transducer's hearing compensation at low frequency. The preload force can improve the transducer's hearing compensation performance in mid-high frequency region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohai Liu
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Houguang Liu
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Hearing Technology, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jianhua Yang
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Jingbin Hao
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Shanguo Yang
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
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8
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Fierens G, Standaert N, Peeters R, Glorieux C, Verhaert N. Safety of active auditory implants in magnetic resonance imaging. J Otol 2021; 16:185-198. [PMID: 34220987 PMCID: PMC8241703 DOI: 10.1016/j.joto.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become the gold standard for the diagnosis of many pathologies. Using MRI in patients with auditory implants can however raise concerns due to mutual interactions between the implant and imaging device, resulting in potential patient risks. Several implant manufacturers have been working towards more MRI safe devices. Older devices are however often labelled for more stringent conditions, possibly creating confusion with patients and professionals. With this myriad of different devices that are implanted in patients for lifetimes of at least 20 years, it is crucial that both patients and professionals have a clear understanding of the safety of their devices. This work aims at providing an exhaustive overview on the MRI safety of active auditory implants. The available industry standards that are followed by manufacturers are outlined and an overview of the latest scientific developments focusing on the last five years is provided. In addition, based on the analysis of the adverse events reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and in literature within the past ten years, a systematic review of the most commonly occurring issues for patients with auditory implants in the MRI environment is provided. Results indicate that despite the release of more MRI conditional active hearing implants on the market, adverse events still occur. An extensive overview is provided on the MRI safety of active auditory implants, aiming to increase the understanding of the topic for healthcare professionals and contribute to safer scanning conditions for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Fierens
- Laboratory of Soft Matter and Biophysics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001, Heverlee, Belgium
- Cochlear Technology Centre, Schaliënhoevedreef 20I, B-2800, Mechelen, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Research Group Experimental Otorhinolaryngology, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nina Standaert
- University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ronald Peeters
- University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Radiology, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christ Glorieux
- Laboratory of Soft Matter and Biophysics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Verhaert
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Research Group Experimental Otorhinolaryngology, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
- University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
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9
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Totally implantable active middle-ear implants: a large, single-surgeon cohort. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2021; 135:304-309. [PMID: 33745469 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215121000335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate hearing outcomes and device safety in a large, single-surgeon experience with the totally implantable active middle-ear implants. METHODS This was a retrospective case series review of 116 patients with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss undergoing implantation of active middle-ear implants. RESULTS Mean baseline unaided pure tone average improved from 57.6 dB before surgery to 34.1 dB post-operatively, signifying a mean gain in pure tone average of 23.5 dB (p = 0.0002). Phonetically balanced maximum word recognition score improved slightly from 70.5 per cent to 75.8 per cent (p = 0.416), and word recognition score at a hearing level of 50 dB values increased substantially from 14.4 per cent to 70.4 per cent (p < 0.0001). Both revision and explant rates were low and dropped with increasing surgeon experience over time. CONCLUSION This study showed excellent post-operative hearing results with active middle-ear implants with regard to pure tone average and word recognition score at a hearing level of 50 db. Complication rates in this case series were significantly lower with increasing experience of the surgeon. Active middle-ear implants should be considered in appropriate patients with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss who have struggled with conventional amplification and are good surgical candidates.
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Peixoto MC, Pratas R, Miranda C, Bento M, Oliveira S, Correia da Silva V. Active Middle Ear Implant Patient Outcomes With Adaptive Feedback Canceller. Otol Neurotol 2021; 42:372-376. [PMID: 33332858 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000002960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluation of the audiological patient performance with an upgrade of the firmware from the fixed feedback canceller (FFC) to the adaptive feedback canceller (AFC) on an active middle ear implant. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective observational nonrandomized group study. SETTING Private hospital. PATIENTS/INTERVENTIONS From March 2018 to September 2019, 15 patients implanted with an active middle ear implant, with 6 or more months of experience with a FFC system, were upgraded to an AFC algorithm. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Functional gain, speech perception in silence and in noise, and sound localization capacities were examined. Feedback reduction was also analyzed. RESULTS Thirteen patients were analyzed. Pure tone audiometric evaluation with FFC (mean value of 48.02 dB) compared with AFC at 1 (mean value of 49.12 dB) and 6 months (mean value of 42.75 dB) revealed no statistically significant differences (p = 0.889 and p = 0.358 respectively).In speech discrimination in silence, clinically relevant improvements were observed with AFC at 1 and 6 months, with a mean value of 41.5 and 38.3 dB, respectively (p = 0.03 and p = 0.021 correspondingly). In speech discrimination in noisy environments, we observed an improvement of the different conditions tested. No differences were found in localization capacities between FFC and AFC at the two different moments of evaluation. CONCLUSIONS AFC is more effective than FFC in cancelling feedback and improving sound quality, allowing for better speech understanding in silence and in noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Conceição Peixoto
- Auditory Implant Unit, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital CUF Porto, Porto, Portugal
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11
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Design Study of a Round Window Piezoelectric Transducer for Active Middle Ear Implants. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21030946. [PMID: 33572684 PMCID: PMC7866998 DOI: 10.3390/s21030946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This report describes the design of a new piezoelectric transducer for round window (RW)-driven middle ear implants. The transducer consists of a piezoelectric element, gold-coated copper bellows, silicone elastomer (polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS), metal cylinder (tungsten), and titanium housing. The piezoelectric element is fixed to the titanium housing and mechanical resonance is generated by the interaction of the bellows, PDMS, and tungsten cylinder. The dimensions of PDMS and the tungsten cylinder with output characteristics suitable for compensation of sensorineural hearing loss were derived by mechanical vibrational analysis (equivalent mechanical model and finite element analysis (FEA)). Based on the results of FEA, the RW piezoelectric transducer was implemented, and bench tests were performed under no-load conditions to confirm the output characteristics. The transducer generates an average displacement of 219.6 nm in the flat band (0.1–1 kHz); the resonance frequency is 2.3 kHz. To evaluate the output characteristics, the response was compared to that of an earlier transducer. When driven by the same voltage (6 Vp), the flat band displacement averaged 30 nm larger than that of the other transducer, and no anti-resonance was noted. Therefore, we expect that the new transducer can serve as an output device for hearing aids, and that it will improve speech recognition and treat high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss more effectively.
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12
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Panda A, Carlson ML, Diehn FE, Lane JI. Beyond Tympanomastoidectomy: A Review of Less Common Postoperative Temporal Bone CT Findings. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2021; 42:12-21. [PMID: 33184072 PMCID: PMC7814786 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Postoperative temporal bone imaging after surgical procedures such as ossiculoplasty, tympanomastoidectomy, cochlear implantation, and vestibular schwannoma resection is often encountered in clinical neuroradiology practice. Less common otologic procedures can present diagnostic dilemmas, particularly if access to prior operative reports is not possible. Lack of familiarity with the less common surgical procedures and expected postoperative changes may render radiologic interpretation challenging. This review illustrates key imaging findings after surgery for Ménière disease, superior semicircular canal dehiscence, temporal encephalocele repairs, internal auditory canal decompression, active middle ear implants, jugular bulb and sigmoid sinus dehiscence repair, and petrous apicectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Panda
- From the Departments of Radiology (A.P., J.I.L., F.E.D.)
| | - M L Carlson
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (M.L.C.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - F E Diehn
- From the Departments of Radiology (A.P., J.I.L., F.E.D.)
| | - J I Lane
- From the Departments of Radiology (A.P., J.I.L., F.E.D.)
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13
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Banakis Hartl RM, Jenkins HA. Implantable Hearing Aids: Where are we in 2020? Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2020; 5:1184-1191. [PMID: 33364411 PMCID: PMC7752069 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Beginning in the late 20th century, implantable hearing aids were developed and used as an alternative for individuals who were unable to tolerate conventional hearing aids. Since that time, several devices have been developed, with four currently remaining on the international market (Med-el Vibrant Soundbridge, Envoy Esteem, Ototronix MAXUM, and Cochlear Carina). This review will briefly examine the history of middle ear implant development, describe current available devices, evaluate the benefits and limits of the technology, and consider the future directions of research in the field of implantable hearing aids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Herman A. Jenkins
- Department of OtolaryngologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
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14
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Cuda D, Murri A, Mainardi A, Forli F, Berrettini S, Bruschini L. Binaural hearing restoration with a bilateral fully implantable middle ear implant. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2020; 278:2239-2246. [PMID: 32833054 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-06290-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM The fully implantable middle ear implant (C-FI-MEI) is designed for patients with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss or those with mixed hearing loss. To analyze the audiological post-operative results of subjects bilaterally implanted with C-FI-MEI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective study: 14 patients with bilateral, moderate-to-severe, sensorineural or mixed hearing loss were treated. This clinical sample included 14 cases bilaterally implanted (13 sequentially, 1 simultaneously). The evaluation at each follow-up after surgery included otologic examination, a structured interview, and different audiological tests composed of pure tone audiometry, speech in quiet and in noise test, and localization task. The mean follow-up was 67.2 ± 33 months. RESULTS There were no significant differences between pre and post-operative pure tone averages. The patients showed no significant differences between pre-operatively aided and C-FI-MEI implant-aided conditions in terms of word recognition score. Speech perception in noise under different loudspeaker arrangements and localization tests demonstrated a binaural advantage in bilaterally implanted patients. The mean daily use time was 17.4 and 16.7 h, respectively, for right and left side. CONCLUSION The results for the 14 patients, bilaterally implanted with C-FI-MEI, suggest that bilateral implantation of fully implantable middle ear hearing devices is an effective procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Cuda
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "Guglielmo da Saliceto" Hospital of Piacenza, Via Cantone del Cristo 40, 29121, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Murri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "Guglielmo da Saliceto" Hospital of Piacenza, Via Cantone del Cristo 40, 29121, Piacenza, Italy.
| | - Anna Mainardi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, "Guglielmo da Saliceto" Hospital of Piacenza, Via Cantone del Cristo 40, 29121, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Forli
- ENT Audiology and Phoniatric Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Berrettini
- ENT Audiology and Phoniatric Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Bruschini
- ENT Audiology and Phoniatric Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Lau K, Scotta G, Barauna I, da Silva VC, Peixoto MC, Ray J. Surgical and audiological outcomes of a fully implantable middle ear implant: early results from a retrospective multicentre study. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2020; 277:2721-2727. [PMID: 32372259 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-05986-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This paper reports the surgical and audiological outcomes of a large series of patients who received a fully implantable middle ear implant (MEI): carina (Cochlear, Australia). METHODS This is a multicentre retrospective study involving three tertiary referral centres. Patient data were collected for the first 42 consecutive patients who were fitted with the MEI between 2014 and 2019 (Sheffield from February 2017 to January 2019; São Paulo from April 2015 to September 2017; Porto from December 2014 to May 2017). The main outcome measures included surgical results, free field speech testing with speech recognition thresholds (SRT) and audiological gain. RESULTS There was one major complication due to infection resulting in a brain abscess and explantation of the device. Three other patients had minor skin infections; no other complications were reported. Results show a functional gain of 19.5 dB (p < 0.05) with the MEI versus unaided condition. SRT improved from 57.4 dB to 44.6 dB with the MEI (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This fully implanable active MEI offers a reliable option for patients with moderate-to-severe sensorineural or mixed hearing losses especially for those do not tolerate or cannot use conventional hearing aids. It provides significant improvement in hearing as shown in the audiological outcomes. The surgery is relatively straightforward but there is a steep learning curve. The devices are well tolerated by all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Lau
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK. .,ENT Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK.
| | - Gianluca Scotta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK.,ENT Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK
| | | | - Victor Correia da Silva
- Auditory Implant Unit, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital CUF Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Conceição Peixoto
- Auditory Implant Unit, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital CUF Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jaydip Ray
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK.,ENT Department, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK
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