초록 ▼

The present invention provides a fully implantable cochlear implant system (FICIS) that allows various configurations of different modules to be combined so as to meet the needs of a particular patient, including very young patients. At least three main modules are used in the FICIS, including (1) a

The present invention provides a fully implantable cochlear implant system (FICIS) that allows various configurations of different modules to be combined so as to meet the needs of a particular patient, including very young patients. At least three main modules are used in the FICIS, including (1) a small implantable cochlear stimulator (ICS) module, with permanently attached cochlear electrode array; (2) an implantable speech processor (ISP) module, with integrated microphone and rechargeable battery; and (3) an external module. In one embodiment, the external module may comprise an external speech processor (ESP) module. In another embodiment, the external module may comprise an external battery charger (EBC) module. The ICS and ISP modules are configured to facilitate long time reliable use of the ICS module, e.g., for the lifetime of the patient, and low-risk, relatively easy replacement of the ISP module.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A fully implantable cochlear implant system (FICIS) comprising:an implantable cochlear stimulator (ICS) module having an electrode array attached thereto, the electrode array having a multiplicity of spaced-apart electrode contacts at or near a distal end thereof, each

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A fully implantable cochlear implant system (FICIS) comprising:an implantable cochlear stimulator (ICS) module having an electrode array attached thereto, the electrode array having a multiplicity of spaced-apart electrode contacts at or near a distal end thereof, each electrode contact having a respective electrical conductor attached thereto, all of the electrical conductors being electrically connected with stimulation circuitry housed within the ICS module;an implantable speech processor (ISP) module having speech processing (SP) electronic circuitry, a battery, and a microphone all hermetically sealed therein, the ISP module further having an electrical connector that electrically connects first and second conductors through respective first and second feedthru terminals to the SP electronic circuitry; andelectrical coupling means for electrically coupling the ICS module with the ISP module through the connector on the ISP module;wherein the battery within the ISP module provides operating power for both the ISP module and the ICS module, and furtherwherein sounds sensed through the microphone in the ISP module are electronically processed by the SP electronic circuitry and sent to the ICS module through the coupling means as stimulation signals which may be applied to the electrode contacts on the electrode array.