MED-EL Podcast

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger is joined by Scott Murray, a long-time cochlear implant user and outdoor enthusiast, to explore how the waterproof technology of SONNET 3 is transforming everyday life. From rainy concerts to water sports, discover how this next-level technology brings freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind to CI users—no matter the weather. Weblinks: MED-EL Website: SONNET 3 Audio Processor  MED-EL Blog: 11 Facts Clinicians Should Know About SONNET 3 & MAESTRO 11

In this episode, Patrick Spörr, Product Manager for External Devices at MED-EL, talks with Andreas Neurauter from MED-EL's R&D department about the new AudioLink XT and its standout features. They explore how this next-generation connectivity device builds on user feedback to offer ASHA-based TV streaming, FM receiver support, improved battery efficiency, broader compatibility, and more. Weblinks: MED-EL Website: AudioLink XT MED-EL Blog: Get the Most Out of SONNET 3 With AudioLink XT and AudioKey 3

In this final episode of Closest to Natural Hearing, Marcus Schmidt speaks with Dr. Hinrich Staecker and Dr. Peter Nopp about the future of cochlear implantation. They explore how advances in AI, anatomy‑based fitting, hearing preservation, and fully implantable systems are reshaping outcomes for current and future CI users. The conversation also highlights emerging developments in gene therapy, drug‑emitting electrodes, robotics, and individualized surgical planning—all pointing toward a future in which hearing with a CI is more natural, seamless, and accessible than ever. Literature References: Helbig S, Rajan GP, Stöver T, et al. Hearing preservation after cochlear reimplantation. Otology & Neurotology : Official Publication of the American Otological Society, American Neurotology Society [and] European Academy of Otology and Neurotology. 2013 Jan;34(1):61-65. DOI: 10.1097/mao.0b013e318277a44e. PMID: 23202149. Lee S, Lee S, Park S: Comprehensive genetic profiling of sensorineural hearing loss using an integrative diagnostic approach. Cell Reports Medicine, 2025; 6. Manrique-Huarte, Raquel; Zulueta-Santos, Cristina; Calavia, Diego; Linera-Alperi, Marta Álvarez de; Gallego, Maria Antonia; Jolly, Claude; Manrique, Manuel. Cochlear Implantation With a Dexamethasone Eluting Electrode Array: Functional and Anatomical Changes in Non-Human Primates. Otology & Neurotology 41(7):p e812-e822, August 2020. | DOI: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000002686. Michael Nieratschker, Pavel Mistrik, Zdenek Petrasek, Erdem Yildiz, Anselm J. Gadenstaetter, Matthias Gerlitz, Anne-Margarethe Kramer, Monika Kwiatkowska, Susanne Braun, Reimar Schlingensiepen, Clemens Honeder, Christoph Arnoldner. Silicone-based AC102-loaded cochlear implant coatings protect residual hearing in an animal model of cochlear implantation, Hearing Research, Volume 454, 2024, doi.org/10.1016/j.heares.2024.109150. Prenzler N, Salcher R, Büchner A, Warnecke A, Kley D, Batsoulis C, Vormelcher S, Mitterberger-Vogt M, Morettini S, Schilp S, Hochmair I, Lenarz T. Cochlear implantation with a dexamethasone-eluting electrode array: First-in-human safety and performance results. Hear Res. 2025 Jun;461:109255. doi: 10.1016/j.heares.2025.109255. Epub 2025 Mar 23. PMID: 40158223.  Shearer AE, Hildebrand MS, Odell AM, et al. Genetic Hearing Loss Overview. 1999 Feb 14 [Updated 2025 Apr 3]. In: Adam MP, Bick S, Mirzaa GM, et al., editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2026. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK1434/.

In this episode, Marcus Schmidt discusses with Prof. Stefan Weder and Dr. Ilona Anderson how a flexible electrode array design and advanced surgical tools, such as OTOPLAN and OTODRIVE, are helping surgeons achieve more precise outcomes while supporting residual hearing preservation by protecting the delicate structures in the cochlea. They also look at the latest clinical data on hearing preservation, including FDA-approval for hearing preservation, and they discuss how these innovations are improving quality of life for CI users.  Weblinks: MED-EL Professional Blog: 5 Ways to Maximize Residual Hearing Preservation With Precision Surgery How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing Literature References: Aebischer, P., Anschuetz, L., Caversaccio, M., Mantokoudis, G., & Weder, S. (2024). Quantitative in-vitro assessment of a novel robot-assisted system for cochlear implant electrode insertion. International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery, 1-10.  Heyning, P. H. V. de, Dazert, S., Gavilan, J., Lassaletta, L., Lorens, A., Rajan, G. P., Skarzynski, H., Skarzynski, P. H., Tavora-Vieira, D., Topsakal, V., Usami, S., Rompaey, V. V., Weiss, N. M., & Polak, M. (2022). Systematic Literature Review of Hearing Preservation Rates in Cochlear Implantation Associated With Medium- and Longer-Length Flexible Lateral Wall Electrode Arrays. Frontiers in Surgery, 9, 893839. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsurg.2022.893839. Oetiker Y, Aebischer P, Caversaccio M, Mantokoudis G, Weder S. Hearing preservation outcomes with motorized cochlear implant electrode insertion: matched-cohort observations. Front Surg. 2025 Nov 7;12:1700744. doi: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1700744. PMID: 41282565; PMCID: PMC12637026. US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval confirming that there is sufficient evidence that MED-EL's FLEX electrodes preserve residual functional hearing in the majority of recipients: Document "Summary of safe-ty and effectiveness Data" of Premarket Approval Application (PMA) Number: P000025/S129, MED-EL Cochlear Implant System, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf/P000025S129B.pdf. von Ilberg C, Kiefer J, Tillein J, Pfenningdorff T, Hartmann R, Stürzebecher E, Klinke R. Electric-acoustic stimulation of the auditory system. New technology for severe hearing loss. ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 1999 Nov-Dec;61(6):334-40. doi: 10.1159/000027695. PMID: 10545807.  

In this episode, Dr. Ilona Anderson welcomes Mariia Pazi and Krystian Koper, two cochlear implant users with unique hearing journeys. Together, they explore what "closest to natural hearing" means from a user's perspective.  Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing  

In this episode, Jennifer Robinson is joined by Dr. Anja Kurz and Dr. Margaret Dillon for an in‑depth look at anatomy‑based fitting (ABF) and its role in reducing frequency–place mismatch. Together, they explore what makes ABF so impactful—from the underlying science to everyday clinical challenges—and discuss recent findings that show how individualized frequency alignment can improve listening comfort, sound quality, and speech comprehension.   Literature References: Buchman CA, Dillon MT, King ER, Adunka MC, Adunka OF, Pillsbury HC. Influence of cochlear implant insertion depth on performance: a prospective randomized trial. Otol Neurotol. 2014 Dec;35(10):1773-9. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000000541. PMID: 25122601.  Canfarotta MW, Dillon MT, Buchman CA, Buss E, O'Connell BP, Rooth MA, King ER, Pillsbury HC, Adunka OF, Brown KD. Long-Term Influence of Electrode Array Length on Speech Recognition in Cochlear Implant Users. Laryngoscope. 2021 Apr;131(4):892-897. doi: 10.1002/lary.28949. Epub 2020 Aug 1. PMID: 32738069; PMCID: PMC7855603.  Dillon MT, Canfarotta MW, Buss E, Rooth MA, Richter ME, Overton AB, Roth NE, Dillon SM, Raymond JH, Young A, Pearson AC, Davis AG, Dedmon MM, Brown KD, O'Connell BP. Influence of Electric Frequency-to-Place Mismatches on the Early Speech Recognition Outcomes for Electric-Acoustic Stimulation Users. Am J Audiol. 2023 Mar;32(1):251-260. doi: 10.1044/2022_AJA-21-00254. Epub 2023 Feb 17. PMID: 36800505; PMCID: PMC10166189.  Dillon MT, Buss E, Richter ME, Brown KD. Effects of Interaural Latency and Frequency Mismatch on Speech Recognition for Bimodal Cochlear Implant Users. Laryngoscope. 2025 Jun;135(6):2139-2145. doi: 10.1002/lary.32026. Epub 2025 Jan 27. PMID: 39871523.  Kurz A, Müller-Graff FT, Hagen R, Rak K. One Click Is Not Enough: Anatomy-Based Fitting in Experienced Cochlear Implant Users. Otol Neurotol. 2022 Dec 1;43(10):1176-1180. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000003731. PMID: 36351223.   Kurz A, Herrmann D, Hagen R, Rak K. Using Anatomy-Based Fitting to Reduce Frequency-to-Place Mismatch in Experienced Bilateral Cochlear Implant Users: A Promising Concept. J Pers Med. 2023 Jul 8;13(7):1109. doi: 10.3390/jpm13071109. PMID: 37511722; PMCID: PMC10381201.  Kurz A, Herrmann D, Müller-Graff FT, Voelker J, Hackenberg S, Rak K. Anatomy-based fitting improves speech perception in noise for cochlear implant recipients with single-sided deafness. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Jan;282(1):467-479. doi: 10.1007/s00405-024-08984-4.  Landsberger DM, Svrakic M, Roland JT Jr, Svirsky M. The Relationship Between Insertion Angles, Default Frequency Allocations, and Spiral Ganglion Place Pitch in Cochlear Implants. Ear Hear. 2015 Sep-Oct;36(5):e207-13. doi: 10.1097/AUD.0000000000000163. PMID: 25860624; PMCID: PMC4549170.  Lee SE, Brown KD, Overton AB, Thompson NJ, Sloop AD, Richter ME, Canfarotta MW, Selleck AM, Dedmon MM, Dillon MT. Association of Tonotopic Mismatch With the Speech Recognition of Cochlear Implant Users With Unilateral Hearing Loss. Otol Neurotol. 2025 Sep 1;46(8):e302-e306. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000004543. Epub 2025 May 15. PMID: 40423677.  Müller-Graff FT, Ilgen L, Schendzielorz P, Voelker J, Taeger J, Kurz A, Hagen R, Neun T, Rak K. Implementation of secondary reconstructions of flat-panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT) and otological planning software for anatomically based cochlear implantation. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 May;279(5):2309-2319. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06924-0. Epub 2021 Jun 8. PMID: 34101009; PMCID: PMC8986679.  Müller-Graff FT, Voelker J, Kurz A, Hagen R, Neun T, Rak K. Accuracy of radiological prediction of electrode position with otological planning software and implications of high-resolution imaging. Cochlear Implants Int. 2023 May;24(3):144-154. doi: 10.1080/14670100.2022.2159128. Epub 2023 Jan 8. PMID: 36617441.  Müller-Graff FT, Spahn B, Herrmann DP, Kurz A, Völker J, Hagen R, Rak K. Comprehensive literature review on the application of the otological surgical planning software OTOPLAN® for cochlear implantation. HNO. 2024 Dec;72(Suppl 2):89-100. English. doi: 10.1007/s00106-023-01417-4. Epub 2024 Jun 11. PMID: 38861031.  Müller-Graff FT, Herrmann D, Spahn B, Voelker J, Kurz A, Neun T, Hackenberg S, Rak K. Position control of flexible electrodes with regard to intra-cochlear structure preservation and hearing outcomes: a retrospective study with implementation of the electrode contact view. Otol Neurotol. 2025 Jun 17. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000004528. Online ahead of print.  Sloop AD, Richter ME, Scharf SP, Rooth MA, Brown KD, Dillon MT. Attrition in Cochlear Implant Research: Sociodemographic, Audiologic, and Performance Variables. Laryngoscope. 2026 Mar 6. doi: 10.1002/lary.70464. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 41792877.  

In this episode, Dr. Peter Nopp is joined by Prof. Griet Mertens and Dr. Masoud Zoka Assadi to explore individualized cochlear implantation, from anatomy-based electrode selection to anatomy-based fitting. They also explain how OTOPLAN supports clinicians before and after surgery by visualizing the patient's unique cochlea, guiding electrode selection, and calculating frequencies tonotopically for a precise postoperative fitting. Literature References: Creff G, Lambert C, Coudert P, Pean V, Laurent S, Godey B. Comparison of Tonotopic and Default Frequency Fitting for Speech Understanding in Noise in New Cochlear Implantees: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Cross-Over Study. Ear Hear. 2024 Jan-Feb 01;45(1):35-52. doi: 10.1097/AUD.0000000000001423. Epub 2023 Oct 12. PMID: 37823850.  Kurz A, Herrmann D, Müller-Graff FT, Voelker J, Hackenberg S, Rak K. Anatomy-based fitting improves speech perception in noise for cochlear implant recipients with single-sided deafness. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Jan;282(1):467-479. doi: 10.1007/s00405-024-08984-4. Epub 2024 Sep 19. PMID: 39299967; PMCID: PMC11735480. Mertens G, Van de Heyning P, Vanderveken O, Topsakal V, Van Rompaey V. The smaller the frequency-to-place mismatch the better the hearing outcomes in cochlear implant recipients? Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 Apr;279(4):1875-1883. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06899-y. Epub 2021 Jun 15. PMID: 34131770. Lassaletta L, Calvino M, Sánchez-Cuadrado I, Muñoz E, Gavilán J. Can anatomy-based fitting improve musical perception in adult cochlear implant users? Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 Mar-Apr;91(2):101533. doi: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2024.101533. Epub 2024 Nov 19. PMID: 39566293; PMCID: PMC11617376.

In this episode, Ilona Anderson and Professor Paul Van de Heyning discuss why stimulating the entire cochlea is key to achieving natural hearing with cochlear implants — and how this approach improves music enjoyment as well as overall quality of life for patients. Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing

In this episode, Marcus Schmidt is joined by Prof. Sumit Agrawal and Dr. Peter Nopp to explore how cochlear anatomy shapes cochlear implant design and performance. They discuss breakthrough synchrotron imaging, the variability in cochlear size and structure, and why deep insertion and full cochlear coverage matter for natural, rich sound. Weblinks: MED-EL Professional Blog: Incredible Synchrotron Imaging: New Findings in the Human Cochlea | Prof. Helge Rask-Andersen  Literature References: Büchner A, Weller T, Penninger RT, Helpard L, Ladak HM, Agrawal S, Lenarz T, Schurzig D. The Greenwood function shows close alignment with pitch perceived by cochlear implant patients with long, flexible electrode arrays and fine-structure stimulation. Front Neurosci. 2025 Sep 2;19:1624499. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2025.1624499. PMID: 41001584; PMCID: PMC12457772.  Dorman MF, Natale SC, Noble JH, Zeitler DM (2022). Upward Shifts in the Internal Representation of Frequency Can Persist Over a 3-Year Period for Cochlear Implant Patients Fit With a Relatively Short Electrode Array. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:863891. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.863891  Li H, Helpard L, Ekeroot J, Rohani SA, Zhu N, Rask-Andersen H, Ladak HM, Agrawal S. Three-dimensional tonotopic mapping of the human cochlea based on synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging. Sci Rep. 2021 Feb 24;11(1):4437. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-83225-w. PMID: 33627724; PMCID: PMC7904830.  Li H, Schart-Morén N, Rohani SA, Ladak HM, Rask-Andersen H, Agrawal S. Synchrotron Radiation-Based Reconstruction of the Human Spiral Ganglion: Implications for Cochlear Implantation. Ear Hear. 2020 Jan/Feb;41(1):173-181. doi: 10.1097/AUD.0000000000000738. PMID: 31008733.  Mei X, Glueckert R, Schrott-Fischer A, Li H, Ladak HM, Agrawal SK, Rask-Andersen H. Vascular Supply of the Human Spiral Ganglion: Novel Three-Dimensional Analysis Using Synchrotron Phase-Contrast Imaging and Histology. Sci Rep. 2020 Apr 3;10(1):5877. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-62653-0. Erratum in: Sci Rep. 2020 May 1;10(1):7681. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-64611-2. PMID: 32245997; PMCID: PMC7125215.  Micuda A, Li H, Rask-Andersen H, Ladak HM, Agrawal SK. Morphologic Analysis of the Scala Tympani Using Synchrotron: Implications for Cochlear Implantation. Laryngoscope. 2024 Jun;134(6):2889-2897. doi: 10.1002/lary.31263. Epub 2024 Jan 8. PMID: 38189807. 

In this first episode, Marcus Schmidt and Jennifer Robinson unpack what closest to natural hearing means, why it matters for cochlear implant users, and how MED-EL's unique technology is designed to replicate the way we naturally hear. Together, they explore the three pillars of closest to natural hearing that make this concept so powerful—and set our technology apart. Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing What Does a Cochlear Implant Sound Like? Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data (US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval confirming that there is sufficient evidence that MED-EL's FLEX electrodes preserve residual functional hearing in the majority of recipients)

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger and Lukas Osl from Product Management delve into the AudioKey 3 app. This innovative tool has many features that make managing hearing settings on the SONNET 3 audio processor easier and more convenient. Tune in to hear expert insights and practical tips for getting the most out of the AudioKey 3 app.

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger explores the innovative direct streaming capabilities of SONNET 3 with Max Röder, an advanced development engineer at MED-EL and bilateral CI recipient. They discuss how settings are optimized for different situations, how phone calls are managed, use of AudioLink XT, and much more. Tune in to find out how these features enhance users' experiences.

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger, Product Manager for SONNET 3, discusses the groundbreaking ergonomics of MED-EL's latest behind-the-ear audio processor with Chris Lilienweiß, one of the first SONNET 3 users and Head of Music and User Experience at MED-EL Germany. They highlight how innovative features like the flexible ear-hook and the touch key are transforming users' experiences and comfort. 

Michelle Dampf, an experienced speech-language pathologist at the University of Missouri Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment, shares her in-depth knowledge on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She addresses the challenges to diagnosis and treatment of ASD and provides numerous recommendations for aural habilitationists working with children who are affected by this condition.    Weblinks Watch the third episode of MED-EL's Beyond Basics Rehabilitation Vodcast on our MED-EL Academy with captioning in English, Spanish, and German. There you can also access a free resource on Differential Diagnosis of ASD and hearing loss.  

Julie Kosaner, a pediatric audiologist, teacher of the deaf, and MED-EL consultant, joins the vodcast series to share her wealth of knowledge on fitting and rehabilitation with auditory brainstem implants (ABIs). We discuss ABI's early beginnings and her current thoughts on how patients with ABIs can achieve the best audiological and intervention outcomes.   Weblinks Watch the second episode of MED-EL's Beyond Basics Rehabilitation Vodcast, available with English, Spanish, and German captions, on the MED-EL Academy with your free account. There you can also access a free resource on ABIs and view videos of ABI recipients.

Jane Opie, a Senior Research Audiologist for MED-EL, introduces the topic of aging and hearing loss to our rehab series. Here we discuss a range of issues, including the challenges of early diagnosis and intervention, the cognitive impact of hearing loss, relevant research, assessment tools, and ideas and tips for rehabilitation.    Weblinks Access our MED-EL Rehabilitation Resources for Adults, including the HISQUI19 and Adult Rehabilitation Kits. Watch the first episode of MED-EL's Beyond Basics Rehabilitation Vodcast and download rehabilitation resources on the MED-EL Academy with your free account. Available with English, Spanish, and German captions. 

In the final episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team meet up with specialist Natalie Teakle to explore the crucial role of digital tools in achieving optimal performance through rehabilitation. Join the discussion as they shine a light onto how these tools simplify the journey for both professionals and patients. Natalie also shares insights into the AI-powered ReDi Studio, highlighting its ability to empower therapists in crafting personalized rehabilitation programs with remarkable ease, requiring just a few clicks.    Weblinks:  Rehabilitation Apps Rehabilitation Support from MED-EL ReDi Studio      *Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay. 

In the fourth episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team talk about the new features of MAESTRO 10, focusing on patient-centric remote care and fitting solutions. Explore the latest advancements designed to facilitate remote patient support and streamline workflows for clinics, saving valuable time. Additionally, they explore the advantages of Anatomy-Based Fitting for cochlear implant users, bringing them closer to natural hearing.    Weblinks:  MED-EL Professionals Blog MED-EL Professionals Blog: New Milestones Reached in Patient-Centered Cochlear Implantation & Care MED-EL Professionals Blog: Anatomy-Based Fitting Download Center  Product Support       *Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay. 

In the third episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team sit down with expert Nikola Ivanovic to explore enhancements in the latest version of OTOPLAN. Discover how these new features streamline the planning process for individualized otological surgery, making it more accessible than ever before. Join the conversation on the potential benefits that clinics can reap from integrating these advancements into their practice.   Weblinks:  MED-EL Professionals: OTOPLAN  MED-EL Professionals Blog: New Milestones Reached in Patient-Centered Cochlear Implantation & Care      *Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay. 

In the second episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team engage in a conversation with specialist Marina Martin-Ballestero about the complexities and anxieties involved in choosing a cochlear implant. Explore the invaluable role of mentoring and fostering connections, as they talk about platforms like Hearpeers. This patient-driven platform connects candidates with mentors who offer guidance and support throughout this crucial part of the journey.    Resources: myMED-EL:  myMED-EL portal  Download Center Surgical Video Library  MED-EL Academy    Connecting people:  hearpeers hearbetter    Finding information:  About Hearing   Closest To Natural Hearing Product Support  The MED-EL Blog  MED-EL Professionals Blog  MED-EL Professionals Website  Switch on Life    Tools for professionals:  MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Candidate Selection Tool  Professional Training and Resources    *Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay. 

Alex and Lukas from Product Management provide an overview of MED-EL's digital care ecosystem. They will talk about how digital tools and services can make the lives of professionals and their patients easier along the entire patient journey. From finding information on hearing solutions all the way to reaching peak performance through individualized hearing rehabilitation.      *Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay.

Peter Grasso and Florian Feichtner talk to Marcus Schmidt about how the clinical support they provide increases reliability: they work in multidisciplinary teams to aid clinicians along the entire patient pathway, answer questions, make expert recommendations, and provide training. Weblinks: (free professional myMED-EL login required, sign up at https://my.medel.com/) MED-EL Academy Course: Clinical Support Materials (medel.com)

MED-EL's audio processors have low average monthly repair rates, but sometimes issues do arise. Audiological scientist Katherine Wilson, Peter Konecny, and Manfred Pieber discuss design aspects that keep this number low - such as analyzing weakness in devices that do break and improving them with each new generation - and how devices are serviced reliably when there are problems to get users hearing again as quickly as possible. Weblinks: Cochlear Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro) Enjoying All-Day Hearing With the RONDO 3 Audio Processor | MED-EL - YouTube

MRI is a very common medical procedure for both otological and non-otological reasons, so it shouldn't have complications or be painful for hearing implant recipients. Dr. Ingo Todt and Dr. Martin Zimmerling talk to Manfred Pieber about the features of MED-EL implants that reduce or eliminate complications - such as magnet dislocation - during MRI: a freely rotating, robust, diametrically bipolar magnet that is removable when it is necessary to reduce the size of imaging artifacts. Weblinks: Importance of Safe MRI Access in Cochlear Implants: Dr. Nancy M. Young - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) MRI Scans with MED-EL Cochlear Implants - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Important Safety Information MRI & Hearing Implants: Reducing Image Artifacts With the BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Implant - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Experiences and Key Learnings in MRI Scanning with MED-EL Hearing Implants Literature Links: MRI Observation After Intralabyrinthine and Vestibular Schwannoma Resection and Cochlear Implantation (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32903399/) Quality Control after Intracochlear Intralabyrinthine Schwannoma Resection and Cochlear Implantation (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34573240/) Prevalence and complications of MRI scans of cochlear implant patients: English version (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26886493/) Cochlear implants and 1.5 T MRI scans: the effect of diametrically bipolar magnets and screw fixation on pain (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29402322/) Pain Free 3 T MRI Scans in Cochlear Implantees (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28938274/) Comparison of Cochlear Implant Magnets and Their MRI Artifact Size (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32420348/) MRI Artifacts and Cochlear Implant Positioning at 3 T In Vivo (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25634466/) Prospective Evaluation of 3 T MRI Effect on Residual Hearing Function of Cochlea Implantees (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36291339/)

Prof. Dr. Kristen Rak and Patrick Müller talk to Marcus Schmidt about their clinical experiences with the VIBRANT SOUNDBRIDGE, the active middle ear implant that has been on the market the longest. They discuss its simplicity and flexibility, the characteristics that ensure its reliability, and the importance of considering feedback from surgeons when refining features to improve reliability for future implant generations.   Weblinks: 25 Years of VIBRANT SOUNDBRIDGE: A Success Story - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) VIBRANT SOUNDBRIDGE VORP 503 Active Middle Ear Implant Important Safety Information Performance Assessment: VIBRANT SOUNDBRIDGE VORP 503 Middle Ear Implant - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Literature Links: Long-Term Safety and Quality of Life after Vibroplasty in Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Short/Long Incus Process Coupler (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34044387/) Long-Term Stability and Safety of the Soundbridge Coupled to the Round Window (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33210744/) Long-term results of incus vibroplasty in patients with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25824716/) Health at a Glance 2021: OECD Indicators (https://doi.org/10.1787/ae3016b9-en)

BONEBRIDGE is different from other bone conduction devices. Prof. Georg Sprinzl, Christine Mühlöcker, and Marcus Schmidt discuss how design differences allow BONEBRIDGE to provide outstanding safety and reliability to users, along with what makes it an ideal choice for pediatric patients. The BCI 602 implant has a robust transducer, a low profile, and is transcutaneous for intact skin. It has two-point fixation and is embedded in the bone for stability, and is MR-conditional at 1.5 Tesla.* * The BONEBRIDGE bone conduction implant is MR conditional. Recipients with BONEBRIDGE may be safely MRI scanned at 1.5 Tesla following the conditions detailed in the instructions for use. Weblinks: Is BONEBRIDGE a Good Hearing Solution for Children? - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Bone Conduction Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro) Safety outcomes of bone conduction and middle ear implants: a systematic review Reliable Hearing by Design: MED-EL's BONEBRIDGE MRI & Hearing Implants: Reducing Image Artifacts With the BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Implant - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro)

Speech and language therapist Pedro Brás da Silva and Joanna Shepherd talk to Manfred Pieber about the aspects of reliability that are especially important for children with cochlear implants. Receiving quality sound all day is crucial to children's learning and development, so having a reliable audio processor and implant is therefore essential. Weblinks: Factors Affecting Communication Outcomes in Pediatric Cochlear Implantation - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Is BONEBRIDGE a Good Hearing Solution for Children? - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro)

Prof. Dr. med. Sebastian Schmerber and Dr. Anandhan Dhanasingh talk to Manfred Pieber about how the design features of MED-EL's flexible, free-fitting, straight FLEX series electrode arrays contribute to implant safety and reliability by reducing the occurrence of common problems such as tip fold-over, scalar deviation, and migration and also preserve intracochlear structures.   Weblinks: Cochlear Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro) Electrode Arrays | MED-EL Pro (medel.pro) FLEX Series: Most Atraumatic Cochlear Implant Electrode Arrays - MED-EL Professionals Blog (medel.pro) Download the full Reliability Report at: Reliable Cochlear Implants by Design from MED-EL (medel.com) Literature Links: An overview of cochlear implant electrode array designs (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29102129/) Review on cochlear implant electrode array tip fold-over and scalar deviation (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31467506/) Scalar localization by cone-beam computed tomography of cochlear implant carriers: a comparative study between straight and periomodiolar precurved electrode arrays (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25575374/) Correlation Between Cochlear Length, Insertion Angle, and Tonotopic Mismatch for MED-EL FLEX28 Electrode Arrays (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34538852/) Suitable Electrode Choice for Robotic-Assisted Cochlear Implant Surgery: A Systematic Literature Review of Manual Electrode Insertion Adverse Events (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35402479/)

Comparing manufacturer reliability data can be difficult. Surgeon and researcher Sumit Agrawal and MED-EL reliability expert Manfred Pieber share their professional insights into this topic with Marcus Schmidt. Clinical studies on reliability can also provide valuable insights into implant manufacturers. Weblinks: Refer to pages 4-14 and 32 after downloading the report from: Reliable Hearing by Design: MED-EL Cochlear Implants Reliable Hearing by Design: MED-EL's BONEBRIDGE Literature Links: Cochlear implant failures and reimplantation: A 30-year analysis and literature review (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31112331/) Evaluating Reasons for Revision Surgery and Device Failure Rates in Patients Who Underwent Cochlear Implantation Surgery (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32134441/) The reliability of hearing implants: report on the type and incidence of cochlear implant failures (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32156201/) The French Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Cochlear implantation complications (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32861600/) The French National Cochlear Implant Registry (EPIIC): Cochlear explantation and reimplantation (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32826202/)

Hearing implant reliability starts with the design process. Dominik Hammerer and Bernhard Jamnig talk to Manfred Pieber about new device development and steps in the manufacturing process that contribute to reliability, including feasibility, hermeticity, impact, environmental, and vibration testing that ensure all requirements are met. Results from thorough investigations of explanted devices are also considered when designing new implants.  Weblinks: Cochlear Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro) Bone Conduction Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro)

Since reliability is an important topic for hearing implant recipients and surgeons, MED-EL publishes reliability reports regularly. But there is more to reliability than high cumulative survival rates. Manfred Pieber and Marcus Schmidt discuss the aspects of design and technology that contribute to implant and audio processor safety and reliability, including structure preservation and independent safety capacitors. Weblinks: Reliable Cochlear Implants by Design from MED-EL (medel.com) Cochlear Implant Safety and Reliability (medel.pro)  

From his research outcomes and clinical experience, Dr. Michael Canfarotta shares what the minimal angular of insertion of a CI electrode should be in order to optimize hearing outcomes.

For us to understand how the brain can adapt to a cochlear implant, Prof. Michael Dorman, PhD, explains the complex topics of tonotopicity and brain plasticity in simple words. He also describes how we can support the brain so there is a greater chance to optimize the hearing outcome.

Dr. Michael Canfarotta explains how, in the majority of cases, the cochlear implant program in his clinic can perform full electrode insertion with the longest commercial CI electrode in the field when the individualized measurement for each cochlear duct length was accounted for.

In this episode, Prof. Van de Heyning shares 3 harmful results which could occur when an electrode is inserted into the cochlea and how we can prevent it. He also discusses why straight electrodes are a suitable and preferable choice for robotic and CI surgery.

The differences between the two main types of cochlear implant electrode arrays are explained in this episode by Dr. Hans Thomeer. Specifically, how these two electrode designs and surgical approaches can affect translocation after the electrode insertion, and what might be a better option.

Prof. Dr. Assen Koitschev shares his experiences with the MED-EL's BONEBRIDGE in children with single-sided deafness. Indications, surgical considerations, and outcomes are discussed.

Prof. Piotr Henryk Skarżyński, M.D., Ph.D., MSc. shares his experiences with the MED-EL's BONEBRIDGE in children with mixed hearing loss. Indications, surgical considerations, and outcomes are covered during this episode.

Joke Veltman, a professional pianist and CI recipient, shares her CI journey and encourages others with tips to bring music back into their lives after implantation. For more recipient stories, visit our YouTube channel.  

Roy Smith, an amateur musician and bilateral CI recipient, describes his road back to music following implantation and shares a message for those who are newly activated.  

Johanna Boyer, MED-EL's resident musicologist, introduces Meludia, our online music training program, and shares additional rehabilitation resources for professionals, recipients, and their families.  Links: Register on myMED-EL for a two-week free trial of Meludia.  Download MED-EL's music resources from our website.   Visit our blog for helpful posts on music.    Check out our Spotify playlist!  Contact Johanna Boyer with your questions.  

Ritva Torppa, a University Lecturer of Logopedics and post-doctoral fellow at the University of Helsinki, shares the benefits of musical experience for spoken language development in cochlear implant recipients and offers ideas about musical activities for children.

Daniel Hofer, Advanced Research Engineer, and Melissa Waller, audiologist in Education & Training, discuss how the unique features MED-EL's cochlear implant technology supports music perception for CI recipients.  Learn more about MED-EL's Complete Cochlear Coverage and FineHearing™ here.  

Aneesha Pretto, Advanced Rehabilitation Manager at MED-EL, reviews some key considerations for counselling and developing a rehabilitation program for hearing implant recipients with SSD. View the Single-Sided Deafness & Cochlear Implant Rehabilitation course on the MED-EL Academy with a myMED-EL account.   Visit Our MED-EL Blog to find out more about Rehabilitation for SSD:  https://blog.medel.com/5-rehabilitation-tips-for-single-sided-deafness/ https://blog.medel.com/single-sided-deafness/ https://blog.medel.com/cochlear-implant-rehab-for-ssd-how-to-improve-your-understanding-of-speech-in-noise/

Aneesha Pretto, Advanced Rehabilitation Manager at MED-EL, discusses why rehabilitation for individuals with SSD is important and shares some useful resources for professionals. View the Single-Sided Deafness & Cochlear Implant Rehabilitation course on the MED-EL Academy with a myMED-EL account.   Visit Our MED-EL Blog to find out more about Rehabilitation for SSD https://blog.medel.com/5-rehabilitation-tips-for-single-sided-deafness/ https://blog.medel.com/single-sided-deafness/ https://blog.medel.com/cochlear-implant-rehab-for-ssd-how-to-improve-your-understanding-of-speech-in-noise/

Aneesha Pretto, Advanced Rehabilitation Manager, introduced the Adult Rehabilitation Kits that professionals can use to get started with adult rehabilitation for hearing implant recipients.  Find the Adult Rehabilitation Kits on our MED-EL Professionals Blog.

In this episode, Melissa Waller and Nikola Ivanovic discuss how OTOPLAN contributes to individualized solutions for MED-EL hearing implant users.

In this episode, Melissa Waller and Nikola Ivanovic talk about how audiologists the data obtained from OTOPLAN.

In this episode, Nikola Ivanovic (Clincial Specialist in R&D at MED-EL) discusses how OTOPLAN is used in surgical planning and post-operative programming.

After identifying a patient as a candidate for Electric Acoustic Stimulation (EAS) and successful implantation, the post-op process begins. In this episode, Melissa Waller talks with Prem Ranjan (former Advanced Product Manager at MED-EL HQ, now Senior Product Manager) about fitting considerations in EAS users.