Patent ID: 6671559
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
A transcanal, transtympanic cochlear implant system where an ear consists in part of an auditory canal, a middle ear space having an intact tympanic membrane with first, second and third bones, a cochlea, a scala tympani forming the lower compartment of the cochlea, with the voids thereof containing perilymph fluids, and auditory nerves connected to the brain, said system comprising:a) a first component for removable positioning within said auditory canal, said first component comprising, i) a sound processor containing at least one microphone for receiving sounds, ii) means for demodulating said sound to an electrical digitized signal, iii) means for converting said digitized signal to an electromagnetic signal, and iv) a portable electrical power source; and b) a second component for implantation within said middle ear space, said second component comprising an insulated receiver coil for receiving said electromagnetic signal, said receiver coil adapted to be disposed between said second and third bones, and a wire mesh electrode located within said receiving coil functioning as a ground electrode.