[The application of implantable hearing aids using the Vibrant Soundbridge as an example]

Over the last decade, bone conducting hearing aids, cochlear implants and implantable hearing aids have come to represent additional treatment options in clinical routine-alongside conventional hearing aids-for hearing impaired patients. Thanks to experience gained in recent years with implantable hearing aids and the consistent evaluation of functional results, the original spectrum of indications has been progressively extended. Today, implantable hearing aids are available for the hearing (re)habilitation of various forms of middle ear pathology as well as sensorineural hearing loss within the audiological criteria. With CE certification for children, the treatment of younger patients with implantable hearing aids has also become possible. Using the Vibrant Soundbridge as an example, the function, indications and contraindications of implantable hearing aids are described and the surgical procedure and post-operative care discussed.