Auditory brainstem implant surgery

Auditory brainstem implants are complex devices that can help patients with damaged or undeveloped inner ear structures restore their hearing ability. Currently, auditory brainstem implants are the only alternative for patients who can’t use cochlear implants and other methods of neurosensory hearing loss. Auditory brainstem implants consist of three parts. The first one, the outer part, is a highly sensitive microphone, and it must stay on the surface of the patient’s body or be worn on clothing. The second part of the device converts audial information from the environment into electrical impulses. The third part consists of electrodes that conduct electrical impulses directly to the brainstem. Before the surgery, the patient receives general anesthesia. Next, surgeons install the implant, stitch the wound, and cover it with a clean dressing. Finally, after the patient recovers from the surgery, they get an appointment with an audiologist, who adjusts the implant and teaches the patient how to use it properly. Also, the implant might require some maintenance from time to time. Technicians will provide all necessary information before discharge from the hospital. The treatment is an option for patients not candidates for cochlear implantation due to the damaged auditory nerve. Because during the procedure, a wire bypasses the natural hearing nerves and transmits the signal directly into the brain.