Audiological outcomes in patients with congenital aural atresia implanted with transcutaneous active bone conduction hearing implant.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the transcutaneous Bone Conduction Implant, the Bonebridge, in patients with congenital aural atresia.

Methods: Audiometry, speech recognition test and free field audiometry were performed. Word recognition scores and speech perception was evaluated using Spanish phonetically-balanced disyllables word list.

Results: Fourteen subjects were implanted with the Bonebridge (seven bilateral placements). The study cohort comprised seven males and seven females aged from 3 to 17 years (mean age 9.76yrs). All patients accepted and benefited from the implanted Bonebridge system. The pre-operative PTA was 66.4 dB (64.2-68.6, 95-%CI) and improved after activation to 19.2 dB (16.9-21.5, 95%CI), resulting in a mean functional gain of 47,2 dB. Regarding speech discrimination, the pre-operative outcomes of the disyllabic measurements were 34.3% and for monosyllables 27.4%. Following activation the speech discrimination improved to 98.6% and 97.9%, respectively. No infections or adverse device related effects occurred in patient group.

Conclusion: We have concluded that the Bonebridge implant is an innovative solution for patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss and unilateral loss suffering from congenital atresia. Different surgical techniques may be used for implant placement, based on the patient's anatomy. Studies show improved functional gain, better speech perception, and lower rates of percutaneous complications associated with this implant.