Engineering:Totally implantable cochlear implant
A totally implantable cochlear implant (TICI) is a new type of cochlear implant and is currently in development. Unlike a conventional cochlear implant, which has both an internal component (the implant) and an external component (the audio processor), all the components of the TICI - including the microphone and battery - are implanted under the skin.[1] This makes the TICI completely invisible from the outside. The TICI is currently in the clinical feasibility study stage of development.[2] The first patient in Europe was implanted with a TICI in September 2020 as part of a clinical trial.[3]
Parts
The TICI contains the same internal components as a conventional cochlear implant: the magnet, antenna coil, electronics and the electrode array, however will also include the features of an audio processor including an implanted rechargeable battery and microphone.[4] The TICI components may be integrated into a single case, the so-called monobody design, or the various components may be attached to one another by connectors, thereby allowing replacement of each of the several modules in case of failure.[5]
Some external hardware will still be required. The internal battery is charged transcutaneously using an external charger, for example while the user sleeps at night.[1] A remote control or app may also be needed in order to switch the implant on and off, adjust the microphone sensitivity and indicate the battery status, among other functions.[4]
Benefits
A totally implantable — and therefore “invisible” — cochlear implant is seen as a benefit to users, particularly those who feel self-conscious about wearing visible hearing devices.[5]
In addition, as the TICI has no external components, it is less susceptible to small breakages from knocks and falls.[5] The lack of external parts also means that they cannot be mislaid – a common problem with pediatric users.
A TICI can function while showering, swimming, and during many types of vigorous physical activity. This allows the user to hear while carrying out these activities.[5]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Steixner, Viktor. "Research" (in en). https://www.uibk.ac.at/mechatronik/signalverarbeitung-und-hochfrequenztechnik/forschung.html.en.
- ↑ "Audiology Worldnews". http://www.audiology-worldnews.com/research/3946-med-el-gets-right-under-the-skin-with-tici-implant.
- ↑ "hoerakustik.net - Erstes TICI in Europa implantiert". https://www.hoerakustik.net/wissen/hoersysteme-technik-zubehoer/3299-erstes-tici-in-europa-implantiert.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Themes, U. F. O. (2016-08-27). "Considerations for Devising a Totally Implantable Cochlear Implant" (in en-US). https://entokey.com/considerations-for-devising-a-totally-implantable-cochlear-implant/.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Cohen, Noel (April 2007). "The Totally Implantable Cochlear Implant" (in en-US). Ear and Hearing 28 (2): 100S–101S. doi:10.1097/AUD.0b013e31803150f4. ISSN 1538-4667. PMID 17496658. https://journals.lww.com/ear-hearing/fulltext/2007/04001/the_totally_implantable_cochlear_implant.24.aspx.
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