Cochlear Implants

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HiRes 90K Cochlear Implant Device

The HiRes 90K is a cochlear implant with a long track record of defects which can potentially harm its recipients. While cochlear implants allow the deaf to experience a type of hearing, there are several pros and cons to the devices. Unlike normal assisted hearing devices, they are fully implantable, but the surgery and the devices carry several health risks.

A cochlear implant works by converting sounds into electric current, and sending the electric current toward the auditory nerve. These electric currents stimulate the nerve, causing it to send a signal to the brain. The brain learns to interpret this signal and this process somewhat simulates natural hearing.

A candidate for cochlear implant must weigh all the pros and cons before having the surgery. The deaf community is split over the device, and may ostracize those who receive it. Opponents feel it is a rejection of the deaf community. In addition, the procedure carries with it some significant health risks.

Problems with HiRes 90K Cochlear Implant Device

One of the companies which manufactures cochlear implants is Advanced Bionics. They produce the HiRes 90k system, which has a long history of defects. In 2004 and 2006 there were recalls of the device.

In 2005, the company was warned of manufacturing deficiencies. .In 2007, Advanced Bionics settled a civil case with the FDA for a $1.1 million fine. The FDA stated that the HiRes90k could "pose a public health risk…"