US-based medical device company Advanced Bionics' (AB) new cochlear implant HiRes Ultra has obtained Health Canada approval, enabling marketing of the implant in Canada.
Based on the HiResolution electronics technology, the cochlear implant is equipped with the HiFocus Mid-Scala electrode to protect the sensitive structures of the cochlea.
The approval includes a surface mount indication, for single-sided deafness in adults and for adults with incapacitating tinnitus unresponsive to the conventional treatments.
The new impant is designed to be suitable for individual patient anatomy and surgical preferences to ensure positive outcomes, as well as features a low profile, which makes it ideal for recipients of all ages.
Advanced Bionics president and Sonova Medical group vice-president Hansjürg Emch said: “AB’s HiRes technology offers the fastest stimulation rate, the widest input dynamic range and the precise stimulation of the hearing nerve via 120 spectral bands, which leads to greater music appreciation and more natural sound for recipients."
The HiRes Ultra is claimed to be able to undergo 1.5T MRI scans with the magnet left in place, while it can be removed easily during a 3T MRI.
The implant provides access to the firm's Naída CI sound processor and wireless accessories, in addition to the new sound cleaning features by Phonak.
The combination facilitates better understanding in noise, wireless connection to different media and devices, along with streaming signal reception between the ears .
The HiRes Ultra cochlear implant is currently available in North America and Europe, with plans for marketing in Canada from 27 February.
