The expanding domain of implantable hearing devices: an update on current status in the United States

Several implantable devices are now approved in the United States for rehabilitation of conductive, mixed, and sensorineural hearing loss. This paper will review current rehabilitative options including middle ear implants, used for mild to severe sloping sensorineural loss, and bone-anchored hearing aids, for conductive or mixed hearing loss. The indications for these devices differ, as do the bases for exclusion. Audiologic evaluation parameters will be reviewed as a guideline to selection, and as a baseline to determine potential rehabilitative impact. We will also describe emerging applications, based on our ongoing research projects, for these devices that are anticipated to broaden the indications.