Bionic Ears

The identification and development of materials that find application in biomedical applications has a profound effect on our quality of life. It is breakthroughs in this area of materials research that has seen the development of highly effective stents [1,2], bone replacements [3], pacemakers [4], bionic ears [5], and wearable prosthetics [6]. In each of the above examples the material requirements will differ. However, in all cases they must be compatible with the biological environment in which they are to operate. This compatibility may involve molecular and cellular interactions, be at the skeletal level wherein aspects related to wearability, comfort, lightweight, and esthetics become important. 

Clark, G.M., and G.G. Wallace. 2004. Bionic ears Their development and future advances using neurotrophins and inherently conducting polymers. Appl Bionics Biomech 1 67. 

The concept has been exemplified by the construction of a bionic ear by 3D printing of a cell-seeded hydrogel matrix in the anatomic... 

A bionic ear is an electronic device sm cally implanted in the inner ear to provide a sense of hearing for those with severely dams ed cochleas. 

A steerable cochlear implant with the CRC for Cochlear Implant and Hearing Aid Innovation (Melbourne, Australia) is also under development. The microactuator will assist surgeons during implantation of the "Bionic Ear" a device used to assist severely deaf patients — giving the ability to hear. The implantation process is a delicate one and the ability to steer the implant through the narrow channels will prevent any damage while leaving the device as close as possible to the inner ear after insertion. 

Saipeshkar, R., C. Salthouse, J.J. Sit, M. Baker, S. Zhak, T. Lu, L. Turicchia, and S. Balster. 2005. An ultra-low-power programmable analog bionic ear processor. IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering 52(4) 711-727. 

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