Latest cochlear implant technology launched in India

From: Express Healthcare Management, India - May 15, 2005

EHM News Bureau - Mumbai

The latest cochlear implant technology, Contour Advance, recently introduced in India, is specifically designed to protect the small and delicate cochlea structures during surgery. This helps to preserve any residual hearing. Its curved shape also provides more focused stimulation of the hearing nerve for better quality outcomes.

Manufactured by Cochlear Limited, priced and distributed by Delhi-based Medilife Technologies in India, Contour Advance is priced at Rs.8.78 lakh. It is available in Delhi, Chandigarh, Kanpur and Indore.

Explaining the technology behind it, Dr Asish K Lahiri, senior ENT specialist, dept of otolaryngology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi said, "The Nucleus 24 Contour Advance is Cochlear's most technically advanced implant available today. It features a pre-curved electrode array, with the additional benefit of a Softip designed to protect the delicate structures within the cochlea. Other features include the proven strength and reliability of titanium casing, and the removable magnet for safe MRI scans." The first ever cochlear contour advance surgery in North India was performed on a six-year old-boy on the February, this year by Dr Lahiri.

When asked about the edge that Contour Advance has over other cochlear implants, Dr Lahiri said, "A Contour Advance is a technically more advanced cochlear implant available today. It is a self-curling electrode array that allows the electrodes to be placed close to the hearing nerve for targeted stimulation and increased power efficiency, while applying minimal pressure on the cochlear structures. The Contour Advance is the only electrode array designed to protect cochlear structures during surgery, which medical professionals say is essential in preserving residual hearing. "

Cochlear has also launched a free help line (011-55307733-34), where concerned family members of deaf people can call and attain any kind of information about these implants. The helpline consultants will assist in fixing up appointments with relevant doctors and audiologists.

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