A hydrodynamic model of labyrinth to study the stimulation of perilymph compartments by audioprostheses

A new strategy for development of transducers for middle ear implants

CONCLUSION

The new strategy was efficient in designing and fabricating a new transducer for middle ear implants. The transducer could overcome important limitations (implantability of transducers, functional needs) of practical application of currently existing implants. The strategy uncovers the potential of translational research in this area of audiology.

OBJECTIVES

To present an overview of research and development (R&D) strategic aspects and its practical implementation through one example of transducer development based on micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology.

METHODS

(a) Rationale of technology in relation to the anatomical and functional features of the middle ear and implant requirements, (b) description and explanation of the different stages and decision-making process for the R&D of a MEMS transducer based on published pieces with their own experimental methods.

RESULTS

This R&D strategy focuses on achieving minute-size transducers by using MEMS technology. The process allows a designing-simulation-testing circle to be accomplished on the bench by special software, before fabrication and in vivo testing. The strategy, consequently, saves animal experiments, empowers the design capabilities and allows the fabrication of customized transducers for special problems. The developed prototypes are in the range of millimetres, fit the requirements of new implants and can be fabricated on a large scale and at low cost.

Tympanic-ossicular prostheses and MEMS technology: whats and whys

CONCLUSIONS

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology fulfils the requirements of implantable middle ear devices and consequently it becomes an excellent option to design and develop the related transducers.

OBJECTIVES

To present a summarized overview of the fundamentals of mechanical technologies in relation to middle ear implants research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Analysis of the possibilities, limitations and practical applications of MEMS as regards the research, development, transference and fabrication processes.

RESULTS

MEMS is a new technology with the potential to develop small integrated mechanical and electronic systems that share many processes of integrated circuits technology and its wide application potential. Middle ear prostheses are essentially special implantable transducers that mimic the properties of the tympano-ossicular system: electromechanical systems that deliver low energy pulses safely and efficiently into the labyrinth fluids. They primarily require: active mechanisms to preclude potential damage levels; minimum energy consumption; adequate dimensions for the middle ear; and biotolerable materials. Additionally, development and translational aspects of the selected technology are of utmost importance in this field.