Systematic Review of Middle Ear Implants

Abstract

The quality of studies was moderate to poor with short follow-up. The evidence supports the use of MEI because, overall, they do not decrease residual hearing, result in a functional gain in hearing comparable to CHA, and may improve perception of speech in noise and sound quality. We recommend the publication of long-term results comparing MEI with CHA, reporting a minimum of functional gain, speech perception in quiet and in noise, complications, and a validated PROM to guide the engineering of the new generation of MEI in the future.

Evaluating the effectiveness and reliability of the Vibrant Soundbridge and Bonebridge auditory implants in clinical practice: Study design and methods for a multi-centre longitudinal observational study

“…A systematic review was conducted [ 17 ] of the impact on hearing of MEIs compared with conventional hearing aids. They concluded that some patients gain benefit from MEIs, but high-quality, long-term studies were not available, providing motivation for this research.…”

Developing an Ear Prosthesis Fabricated in Polyvinylidene Fluoride by a 3D Printer with Sensory Intrinsic Properties of Pressure and Temperature

“…The fabrication of an ear prosthesis at present has led to restoring the functionality of the middle or inner ear with an electronic hearing aid or implant, respectively [ 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 ], when the patient suffers a dysfunction in the mentioned parts of the ear. On the other side, the ear prosthesis is focused on two main aspects: aesthetics and functionality [ 23 , 24 , 25 ].…”

A Case of Incus Vibroplasty: Postoperative Changes in Residual Hearing

“…Delay in formation of fibrotic adhesion between the FMT and the incus long process may be another factor. Previous studies have ascribed postoperative hearing deterioration to middle ear problems or injury to the ossicles [ 1 , 13 ]. Initial mapping is usually recommended about 8 weeks after the surgery to allow a secure connection between the FMT and the ossicular chain.…”

“…Although conventional hearing aids can provide ample benefit for patients with mild to severe hearing loss, patients experience several problems including acoustic feedback, occlusion effect, discomfort, infection, and unsatisfactory cosmesis. Active middle ear implants (AMEIs) may offer adequate amplification without these problems [ 1 , 2 ]. The Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB, Med-El, Innsbruck, Austria) is a partially implantable AMEI device comprised of an internal component that utilizes a vibrating ossicular prosthesis (VORP) and an external component with microphone, audio processor, battery, and transmitter coil.…”