[Semi-implantable transcutaneous bone conduction hearing devices].

BACKGROUND: Patients with air-bone gaps or combined hearing loss that cannot be corrected by tympanoplasty can be treated with bone conduction hearing aids. The disadvantages of conventional and percutaneous systems are, on one hand, the obvious external fixation components and on the other hand, the biological and psychosocial problems of open implants. This project was therefore set up to develop a semi-implantable, magnetically anchored transcutaneous bone conduction device, introduce it into clinical application and follow-up the results.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The principle of this bone conduction device is the magnetic coupling of an external vibrator via implanted double magnets. After extensive laboratory tests, this method was introduced into the clinic in 2006. Following the initial pilot study, 184 implantations in 143 patients have been performed in Recklinghausen since 2008. Long-term evaluation of 20 congenital atresia patients treated with these devices was possible.

RESULTS: Worldwide, more than 3000 of these devices have been implanted. The operative implantation technique is relatively simple. With the new "upside down technique", bone removal is no longer necessary. The 2.6-mm thin implants are hardly noticeable. The hearing improvement is similar to that of other bone conduction hearing aids.

CONCLUSION: This semi-implantable transcutaneous bone conduction hearing device is another option for patients with air-bone gaps, combined hearing loss or single-sided deafness.