Implantable Hearing Aids

Timothy C. Hain, M.D. Page last modified: October 5, 2008

There are several hearing-aid devices that can be implanted into the middle or inner ear. These devices provide potentially better hearing at the price of repated surgery and risk. Some of them prevent MRI scans from being possible. Our view is that presently, these devices are still "not ready for prime time".

Click for information about the more mainstream devices - -the BAHA and Cochlear Implants.

• Rion: This partially implanted device is used primarily for mixed hearing loss.
• Implex: Fully implantable device with rechargable battery that last 3-5 years (i.e. you need more surgery after 3-5 years)
• Envoy: Fully implantable, battery lasts 2.5 to 5 years
• SoundTech. Implanted into middle ear.
• Vibrant Soundbridge. Approved in US. Improved sound quality. Cost about $30K.
• Retrox. Titanium post implanted, available only in Japan.

Reference:

• Slattery WH. Implantable Hearing Devices. Audio-Digest Otolaryngology, vol 41, Issue 13, July 7, 2008