Pinhead-Sized Implant Could Replace Hearing Aids

Posted by samzenpus on Wednesday April 3, 2013 @09:32PM from the can-you-hear-me-now? dept.

An anonymous reader writes "Depending on the level of hearing impairment, conventional aids may not be good enough and a hearing implant is the only option. Until now the required surgery to fit them has taken several hours. However, that is about to change. A new implant that can be fitted with outpatient surgery has been developed consisting of a 1.2mm electro-acoustic transducer, which is positioned at the so-called 'round window,' which is where the middle and inner ear connect. It then produces amplified mechanical vibrations that stimulate the auditory nerve. Even though the transducer is tiny, it can reach volumes of up to 120 decibels."

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I'll take one to cure my tinnitus! by arcite · 2013-04-03 22:02 · Score: 3, Interesting

What? All I hear is ringing! ;(
Re:not ready for prime time, still just parts by Anonymous Coward · 2013-04-04 00:55 · Score: 2, Interesting

I was implanted with implants in both ears just over a year ago. Overall, it is awesome - http://ihearnow.blogspot.com. The biggest complaint is that my processors are not wireless and I have occasional bouts of vertigo... It sure beats utter silence and my family/friends don't have to put up with the depression that happens when you lose your hearing...