Anatomical feasibility and experimental evaluation of sensor coupling sites for fully implantable active middle ear implants.

BACKGROUND

Fully implantable active middle ear implants require implantable sensors to replace external microphones. A recently proposed piezoelectric sensor for ossicular coupling is promising, but data on anatomical feasibility and the impact of coupling mechanics on sensor performance and feedback are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the anatomical feasibility of ossicular coupling sites and evaluate sensor sensitivity and feedback for alternative coupling strategies using a piezoelectric sensor.

METHODS

Ear morphology was assessed in a retrospective, single center analysis of 101 ears from 99 patients undergoing Vibrant Soundbridge implantation. Temporal bone experiments (n = 26) yielded comparative measurements of sensor sensitivity and Floating Mass Transducer (FMT)-induced feedback for a piezoelectric sensor prototype coupled at the umbo and incudostapedial joint. In umbo coupling, the sensor was braced against the promontory using custom-made spacers.

RESULTS

The umbo was feasible in 71 % of ears, whereas an intact incudostapedial joint was present in 30 %, mainly due to prior surgery. In temporal bones with intact ossicular chains, umbo coupling showed sensitivity comparable to incudostapedial coupling, with most deviations within ±10 dB across 0.5-4 kHz. Spacer stiffness and contact force influenced sensitivity, with low pretension (∼10 mN) yielding the most stable responses. FMT-induced feedback at the umbo was comparable to or lower than incudostapedial coupling.

CONCLUSION

The umbo is a feasible and robust coupling site for implantable piezoelectric sensors. Spacer-mediated coupling accommodates anatomical variability while maintaining sensitivity and favorable feedback, supporting its use as an alternative to incudostapedial joint placement.