The bone conduction hearing implant service fits bone anchored hearing devices to people who cannot wear conventional hearing aids.
This includes middle ear implants (MEI) and assessment for Cochlear implants.
Bone conduction hearing implant (BCHI)
Bone anchored hearing implants (BCHI) transmit sound directly to the cochlea by vibrating the mastoid bone. You may be fitted with a BCHI but this depends on your type of hearing loss.
You can be fitted with an implant for this device by having a procedure which allows you to go home on the same day.
Please note that if you lose or damage your BCHI hearing aid, you may be charged.
Find out more about BCHIs
Cochlear Implants
James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough is the North East Regional Cochlear Implant Centre.
We can assess you for your suitability for Cochlear Implants at the Freeman Hospital.
You will be considered for cochlear implants based on whether you are able to travel to Middlesbrough. At this centre, your device will be switched on, and you will receive follow up appointments.
Middle Ear Implant – Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB)
If you are unable to have a regular hearing aid or BCHI, you may be offered a middle ear implant.
This involves an operation to fit the implant. This device uses an external microphone to collect the sound which is then transmitted to an audio processor to an internal implant.
The implant converts the sound energy into vibrations, which travel along a device attached to the bones in your middle ear causing the bones to move.
This device is referred to as the floating mass transducer (FMT) and can be fitted in a variety of ways specific to your form of hearing loss.
How can I be referred into the service?
You can be referred into the service by your GP or healthcare professional
