Implantable Hearing Devices

Have Traditional Hearing Aids Not Met Your Needs?

Discover the Benefits of Implantable Hearing Solutions.

Exploring Advanced Hearing Solutions

In the event that your stage of hearing loss is too far progressed, and you have not derived benefit from traditional hearing aids, then implantable solutions may be necessary to consider. We invite you to explore the options of implantable hearing devices with us. Our practice offers state-of-the-art implantable hearing devices, including cochlear implants, middle ear implants, and bone-anchored systems.

Comprehensive Candidacy Assessment Process

Assessing for candidacy for cochlear implants involves a thorough investigation of various aspects of the patient’s life, including:

  • Communication: Understanding how hearing loss affects daily conversations.
  • Family Dynamics: Evaluating support systems and communicative environments.
  • Surgical Considerations: Assessing medical history and surgical and medical candidacy.
  • Emotional and Financial Factors: Addressing concerns that may impact the decision-making process.
  • Audiological and Psychological Factors: Comprehensive hearing assessments to determine audiological candidacy, as well as the expected outcomes of implantation considering the cognitive potential of the person.

Every cochlear implant equipped through the Durban Cochlear Implant Programme is backed by FDA-approved, internationally manufactured products supported by years of research and technology. 

Cochlear Implants: When conventional technology is not sufficient – a solution for profound sensory or neural hearing loss

Cochlear implants provide a revolutionary solution for those with significant hearing loss due to damaged or destroyed hair cells in the cochlear. Dr. Kara Hoffman (Au.D) uses the power of technology combined with the brain's natural adaptability to create a new way of hearing for patients. As a long-standing member of the Durban Cochlear Implant Programme since her licensure through the University of Stellenbosch in 2008, Dr. Hoffman employs a comprehensive candidacy assessment process, according to the South African Cochlear Implant Group’s (SACIG) strict criteria for inclusion as well as International Best Practice Guidelines.

Understanding The
Cochlear Implant Process

It’s essential to understand that cochlear implants consist of two parts: an internal device surgically placed in the cochlear and a larger external device worn behind or off the ear. While many patients initially seek an "invisible" hearing solution, the impressive improvements in auditory clarity and the ability to reconnect with the world often outweigh concerns about size.

Middle Ear Implants: A Solution for Conductive Hearing Loss

For those experiencing permanent conductive hearing loss, middle ear implants offer an innovative alternative to conventional hearing aids. These implants work by stimulating the tiny bones in the middle ear, allowing for improved sound transmission without the need for external devices.

Vibrant Soundbridge

The Vibrant Soundbridge is a unique middle ear implant system that opens new hearing possibilities for individuals who have not experienced improvement with traditional hearing aids or cannot use them for medical reasons. This implant targets specific areas, providing a customised approach to hearing enhancement.

Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA)

Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA) are designed for individuals experiencing significant hearing loss, particularly those unable to use traditional hearing devices. Unlike typical hearing aids, which amplify sound through damaged areas, BAHAs leverage the natural phenomenon of bone conduction. By sending clear, crisp sound directly to the inner ear, these devices offer a more effective solution for those with conductive and mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness.

The BONEBRIDGE Implant System

The BONEBRIDGE represents the world’s first active bone conduction implant system, making it an effective option for individuals with lasting hearing loss due to middle ear surgeries, malformations, or other conditions. With a minimally invasive approach, this implant system helps restore hearing by transmitting sound vibrations through bone, offering an alternative path for auditory information.

Why Choose Our Implantable Hearing Solutions?

Dr. Hoffman is here to guide you through the complexities of cochlear and middle ear implants. Ensuring you understand both the benefits, considerations of each approach and what to expect throughout the process.