Implantable Hearing Aids

An alternative to traditional hearing aids

Traditional hearing aids may not be suitable for everyone who is hearing impaired. For these people, a new hearing device called the "Vibrant® SoundbridgeTM" may provide a solution to their hearing problem.

The SoundbridgeTM System

The Vibrant® SoundbridgeTM consists of an implantable component, the VORP® (Vibrating Ossicular Prosthesis), and a component which is worn externally on the head, the "Audio Processor."

The implanted VORP consists of a receiver which is implanted under the skin and connected via a conductor link to the incus, one of the three middle ear bones. At the end of the wire there is a device known as the FMT® (Floating Mass Transducer®). The FMT, which is half the size of a grain of rice and attaches to the incus, electromechancially stimulates the middle ear bones, thus amplifying their natural movements and improving the patient's ability to hear.

The Audio Processor contains the same technology as a modern digital hearing aid. It is attracted to the VORP by means of a magnet and is about the size of a three stacked quarters. Because of its small size, it can be worn very inconspicuously under the hair. It is very comfortable to wear, and it gives speech and other sounds a natural quality.

Since the Audio Processor is located externally it can be upgraded to keep pace with technological progress, without the need for renewed surgery. Changing the battery is easy, as well.

2698 NE Courtney Dr. #100, Bend, OR 97701 • 541-389-6669 coaudiology@bendcable.com
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