Preprint Review Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Middle Ear and Bone Conduction Implants: An Overview of the Current Devices

Luca Bruschini
* ORCID logo ,
Francesco Lazzerini
,
Pietro Canzi
,
Elena Carlotto
,
Stefano Berrettini
,
Francesca Forli
,
Ottavia Marconi
Version 1 : Received: 8 August 2023 / Approved: 9 August 2023 / Online: 9 August 2023 (10:29:01 CEST)

How to cite: Bruschini, L.; Lazzerini, F.; Canzi, P.; Carlotto, E.; Berrettini, S.; Forli, F.; Marconi, O. Middle Ear and Bone Conduction Implants: An Overview of the Current Devices. Preprints 2023, 2023080750. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202308.0750.v1 Bruschini, L.; Lazzerini, F.; Canzi, P.; Carlotto, E.; Berrettini, S.; Forli, F.; Marconi, O. Middle Ear and Bone Conduction Implants: An Overview of the Current Devices. Preprints 2023, 2023080750. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202308.0750.v1

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive overview of two major advancements in hearing loss treatment: the middle ear implant (MEI) and bone conduction implants (BCIs). MEI, surgically inserted in the middle ear, directly stimulate the ossicles, and are primarily employed to treat sensorineural, conductive, or mixed hearing losses. BCIs work via bone conduction, bypassing the outer and middle ear to deliver sound vibrations to the inner ear, beneficial especially for conductive or mixed hearing losses and single-sided deafness. The decision to opt for these devices is a multifaceted process, considering audiological criteria, surgical feasibility, and patient expectations. The review also details the portfolio of available devices, their functioning, and audiological usage indications. While both MEI and BCIs prove beneficial for patients, the review emphasizes the need for careful preoperative planning and counselling, considering factors such as potential complications, surgical challenges, and patient suitability. Overall, the two types of implants, despite their individual complexities, provide an effective alternative to traditional hearing aids, offering a path to improved sound clarity and quality for patients with various types of hearing loss.

Keywords

bone conduction implants; middle ear implant; review

Subject

Public Health and Healthcare, Public Health and Health Services

Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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