An auditory brainstem implant is a surgical procedure that places electrodes in the brainstem. It consists of two parts: a processor that transmits sounds and the implant itself that is located in the ear canal.
Our Capabilities
Our team of experts work closely with neurosurgery specialists and audiologists to help patients with significant hearing loss regain their hearing and improve their quality of life.
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At UC Health, we are experts in the most complex conditions of the ear that affect your hearing and balance. Our team of subspecialists use the latest techniques backed by research to accurately diagnose your condition and deliver treatment for the best results.
To schedule an appointment, please call the UC Health Hearing & Balance team at 513-475-8400.
Our Otology & Neurotology subspecialists bring their advanced training and expertise in neurologic and structural disorders of the ear to diagnose and treat every patient. At UC Health, our team works closely with neurosurgeons to deliver leading-edge procedures to treat even the most complex conditions.
To schedule an appointment, please call the UC Health Otology & Neurotology team at 513-475-8400. For cochlear implant or bone-anchored hearing aid appointments, you can reach us at cochlearimplant@uchealth.com.
Answers to Your Auditory Brainstem Implant Questions
An auditory brainstem implant works by transmitting sounds from the brainstem to the ear canal by turning sound waves into electrical signals. By doing so, this provides a shortcut to the brainstem for hearing and understanding sound, bypassing the cochlea and hearing nerve.
Auditory brainstem implants were developed for patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a rare disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves in the inner ear. They can also be used to treat other nerve and inner ear abnormalities.
Anyone experiencing profound sensorineural hearing loss leading to near total loss of sound, patients with hearing loss due to neurofibromatosis type 2 (a rare genetic disorder), and patients with acoustic neuromas in both ears or those who have irreversible auditory nerve damage are good candidates for this procedure.
Auditory brainstem implant surgery is an inpatient procedure, with most patients staying a couple of days in the hospital following surgery. While this procedure cannot restore hearing, it can help improve sound awareness and the ability to read lips.
Experience and Expertise
Our team of physicians, audiologists, speech and language pathologists, and auditory rehabilitation professionals are dedicated to delivering only the best care.
Our patients require a thorough evaluation before implant surgery as well as postoperative auditory therapy to ensure all of the possible benefits of this life-changing procedure.
UC Health has one of only 15 neurotology fellowship programs in the country, training the next generation of subspecialists who dedicate their careers to studying neurological disorders of the ear.
We are committed to providing optimal care to patients by collaborating with healthcare professionals throughout our community and provide several avenues for patient referrals and easy access for referring physicians and clinicians to consult with UC Health specialists.
At UC Health, we lead the region in scientific discoveries and embrace a spirit of purpose – offering our patients and their families something beyond everyday healthcare. At UC Health, we offer hope.