Single channel auditory stimulation system

US4419995A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Ingeborg Hochmair · Axams, AT
• Erwin Hochmair · Axams, AT

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 18, 1981
• Grant date: Dec 13, 1983
• Expiry date: Sep 18, 2001

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N1/36038
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Chronic auditory stimulation is achieved by establishing an electric field at the base of the cochlea whereby full speech patterns are imparted to a patient. Penetration of the cochlea is not required thereby reducing the risks in installing the implanted electrodes. In a preferred embodiment the electrodes are disc shaped with the ground electrode being larger than the active electrode. The active electrode is preferably placed in the round window at the base of the cochlea or on the promontory. The ground electrode is placed 2-10 mm from the active electrode to thereby confine the electric field. The interconnections to the electrodes are tissue compatible insulation covered wires thereby minimizing stimulation of cutaneous nerve fibers.