Eardrum implantable devices for hearing systems and methods
First Claim
1. A device to transmit a sound to a user having an eardrum and a malleus, the device comprising:
- a retention structure to connect to the malleus;
a structure configured for placement in the eardrum; and
a transducer supported with the structure and configured to vibrate the eardrum, wherein the retention structure is sized to extend from the malleus to the structure in order to inhibit migration of the structure when placed in the eardrum.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An implantable device is configured for placement in the eardrum to transmit an audio signal to a user. The device may be configured to improve transmission of an electromagnetic signal from an input assembly on a lateral side of eardrum to an output assembly positioned on a medial side of the eardrum, for example at least partially in the middle ear of the user. The output assembly may comprise a transducer or at least two electrodes configured to stimulate the cochlea, for example. The device may include an opening to transmit the light signal or an optic to transmit the light signal. Alternatively the device may be configured to support a transducer of the output assembly with the eardrum when the device is implanted in the eardrum, such that the eardrum vibrates in response to the signal electromagnetic signal. The electromagnetic signal may include light energy.
331 Citations
13 Claims
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1. A device to transmit a sound to a user having an eardrum and a malleus, the device comprising:
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a retention structure to connect to the malleus; a structure configured for placement in the eardrum; and a transducer supported with the structure and configured to vibrate the eardrum, wherein the retention structure is sized to extend from the malleus to the structure in order to inhibit migration of the structure when placed in the eardrum. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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7. A method of providing a hearing to a user having an eardrum and a malleus, the method comprising:
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providing a hearing device comprising a structure configured for placement in the eardrum; and placing the hearing device in the eardrum; and attaching a retention structure to the malleus of the user, wherein the retention structure extends from the malleus to the structure in order to inhibit migration the structure in the eardrum. - View Dependent Claims (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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Specification