Huber AM, Ball GR, Veraguth D, Dillier N, Bodmer D, Sequeira D. A new implantable middle ear hearing device for mixed hearing loss: A feasibility study in human temporal bones.
Otol Neurotol 2008;
27:1104-9. [PMID:
17031322 DOI:
10.1097/01.mao.0000244352.49824.e6]
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Abstract
HYPOTHESIS
To assess the feasibility of a new, active middle ear device in temporal bones (TB).
BACKGROUND
This device is designed for patients with mixed hearing loss subsequent to chronic middle ear infection, surgery, or trauma. This Bell-Vibroplasty is built from a VIBRANT MED-EL Vibrant Soundbridge and a Kurz Bell titanium partial ossicular replacement prosthesis.
METHODS
In three fresh TBs, healthy and reconstructed middle ears were analyzed by means of laser Doppler interferometry. The sound transmission properties of a partial ossicular replacement prosthesis and a passive and an active Bell-Vibroplasty were compared with healthy middle ear function.
RESULTS
The measurements provided reliable results with small standard deviations and good signal-to-noise ratios. The performance levels of the partial ossicular replacement prosthesis and of the passive Bell-Vibroplasty were comparable with that of healthy middle ear function. The activated Bell-Vibroplasty provided linear function and a flat frequency response within the measured frequency range (500 Hz-8 kHz), with peak deviations of less than 10 dB. The maximum output of the Bell-Vibroplasty was equivalent to 125-dB sound pressure level.
CONCLUSION
Bell-Vibroplasty is feasible in TBs. Bell-Vibroplasty performance in TBs is sufficient to allow for a clinical trial as a next step.
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