Feasibility of Round Window Stimulation by a Novel Electromagnetic Microactuator.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Most implantable hearing aids currently available were developed to compensate the sensorineural hearing loss by driving middle ear structures (e.g., the ossicles). These devices are successfully used in round window (RW) stimulation clinically, although this was initially not the intended use. Here, a novel microactuator, specifically designed for RW stimulation, was tested in human temporal bones to determine actuator performance and applicability.

Methods

Stapes footplate response to RW stimulation was determined experimentally in human temporal bones and the obtained sound pressure output level was estimated.

Results

The actuator had a flat displacement response between 0.125 and 4 kHz, a resonance between 4 and 7 kHz, and a roll-off above. At increas

SUBMITTER: van Drunen WJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5682051 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature