Hoffstetter, M: Novel Designs for Middle Ear Implants

Despite consistent improvement over the past decades, established middle ear implants fail to provide the basic functions of the native ossicular chain. These are prevention of exceeding sound pressure levels and the ability to adapt in length to compensate lateral displacement of the tympanic membrane, induced by changes in ambient air pressure. The utilization of micro injection molding using PEEK as material was identified as a promising approach to implement novel designs that provide a damping functionality. An implant could be developed that features the functionalities desired and that shows infinite life. A finite element based thorough benchmark to commercially available implants could show its biomechanical superiority. Additionally a micro structure was developed, that stimulates the proliferation of surrounding tissue and thus enhances the bio integration. In summary this depicts novel approaches to design middle ear implants that may significantly increase the benefit for patients suffering from amblyacousia.