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Cochlear™ Breaks New Ground: Osia® System Now Facilitates MRI at 3 Tesla, a First for Active Bone Conduction Technology

Saturday, August 19, 2023

Cochlear Limited, a globally recognized leader in implantable hearing solutions, has introduced an advanced iteration known as the Cochlear™ Osia® System. This new system stands out for its exceptional capability to accommodate 3.0 T MRI scans, revolutionizing the hearing experience for those grappling with conductive hearing loss, mixed hearing loss, and single-sided sensorineural deafness (SSD). Retaining the proven strengths of its predecessor, the upgraded Osia System delivers impressive hearing outcomes, user-friendly operation, discreetness, and unwavering reliability.

At the heart of this innovation is the OSI300 Implant, a pivotal component that sets a new standard by allowing patients to undergo MRI scans at both 1.5 T and 3.0 T, all without the need for invasive surgery. This remarkable feat is achieved through a combination of the Osia System's Piezo Power™ transducer, which is free from magnetic materials, and the latest implant magnet technology. The OSI300 Implant is designed to withstand the challenges posed by MRI exposure without compromising its performance, setting it apart from electromagnetic transducers. A key distinction lies in its immunity to demagnetization, which ensures its consistent functionality. Unlike traditional axial magnets, ill-suited for 3.0 T MRI examinations, the OSI300 adopts a diametric magnet encased within a protective housing. This innovation not only paves the way for surgery-free 3.0 T MRI scans but also allows for easy removal of the magnet cassette, minimizing image distortions and enhancing visibility around the implant area.

The advantages of this advancement are twofold, considerably streamlining MRI preparation and minimizing periods of auditory silence. This is especially significant given that many individuals are likely to undergo MRI scans at some point in their lives. Cochlear's commitment to facilitating this crucial healthcare option, coupled with the increasing prevalence of 3.0 T scanners for accurate medical diagnoses, underscores the importance of uninhibited patient access.

Cochlear's dedication to meaningful innovation and their belief in technology's transformative potential are evident in their product portfolio. The spotlight shines on the Osia System, heralded as the inaugural active osseointegrated bone conduction (OSI) system globally a pioneering classification within the realm of bone conduction hearing solutions. By utilizing digital piezoelectric stimulation to bypass compromised portions of the natural auditory pathway, the system directly transmits sound vibrations to the cochlea, marking a significant stride forward in hearing technology.

 

Source: prnewswire.com

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