The surgical technique for implantation of the temporal bone stimulator (Audiant ABC)

Microsurgical techniques and modern hearing aids are very limited in providing hearing improvement to patients with a vast number of middle ear and external ear canal conditions. A new electromagnetic temporal bone stimulator (TBS), capable of direct stimulation of the cochlea, has been developed. Nothing is placed in the external ear canal. The internal portion of the device is placed in the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, thus completely bypassing the external canal, the ossicles, and the middle ear. This provides stimulation to the inner ear regardless of the condition of the external canal and the middle ear. Unilateral hearing losses may also be benefited by transfer of energy to the opposite ear. Selection of patients, the surgical technique, and the instrumental armamentarium are discussed. The pitfalls and expected results are described.