Docket #: S20-169
Extracochlear neurostimulation system for restoration of hearing
Stanford researchers are investigating a new method and possible apparatus for neurostimulation of the cochlea for restoration of hearing while minimizing damage to residual hearing. Unlike current cochlear implantation methods, the proposed device is positioned externally to the cochlea and does not require cochlea penetration which is understood to be the mechanism of action behind residual hearing loss. This invention addresses the risk of loss of residual hearing with improvements in extracochlear implants including new methods for insertion, better biocompatible materials, and new uses of machine learning to synthesize electrode signals.
Stage of Development
Applications
- Treatment and restoration of hearing in adults with severe-to-profound high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss
Advantages
- Extracochlear vs. intracochlear implant
- More likely to preserve residual hearing since this method does not require the cochlea to be penetrated which is understood to be the mechanism of action behind residual hearing loss
- Less potential side effects than current implantation method
- Indications for a cochlear implant have expanded considerably thus preserving the patient's own residual/existing hearing will be extremely important