[Fully implantable middle ear implant--indications, surgical technique and first results].

AIM: The aim of this study is to present indications, surgical technique and first results of fully implantable middle ear implant (Otologics Carina), first time in Polish clinical practice.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

24-years-old patient with bilateral moderate sensorineural hearing loss. The surgery with fully implantable middle ear implant was performed on November 11th, 2008 (implant device Otologics Carina). Two months after the surgery the patient was admitted to hospital for the first fitting. Audiological tests were performed before the surgery and after on every fitting visit (4 fitting visits so far).

RESULTS

Postoperative bone and air conduction thresholds confirmed no cochlear damage due to the surgery. Free field pure tone and speech audiometry proved better results in aided conditions compared to unaided. Further fitting sessions are planned in 6-8 weeks intervals in order to improve hearing thresholds along with anti-feedback adjustments.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm that fully implantable middle ear implant is a viable treatment for adult patients with moderate sensorineural hearing loss. In selected cases it may become an alternative to conventional hearing aids.