Questions about the Surgical Procedure
What is the purpose of the surgery?
The purpose of the surgical procedure is to implant the Carina™ Fully Implantable Hearing Device, which consists of the electronics capsule, microphone and the Middle Ear Transducer. The electronics capsule and microphone are placed under the skin in the area behind the ear. The Middle Ear Transducer is anchored within the mastoid portion of the temporal bone so that it makes contact with the incus.
Does the surgery require general anesthesia?
Yes. the surgery for the Carina Fully Implantable Hearing Device typically requires general anesthesia.
Does the surgery make my hearing worse?
No. When the electrode from a cochlear implant is placed in the cochlea, any remaining hearing in that ear is usually lost and the person becomes dependent on the implant for hearing. This is not the case with Carina. Our transducer leaves the natural hearing system intact. Furthermore, our clinical trials have demonstrated that residual hearing is not adversely affected, as indicated by the stability of bone conduction thresholds before and after surgery. It is very important to realize that after surgery, it may seem like your hearing is not as good as it was before surgery. This is because after any kind of middle ear surgery, that part of the ear becomes swollen and full of fluid. This is the natural reaction of the body to surgery. It takes about six to eight weeks for all the fluid to dissipate from the middle ear space and for most of the swelling to go down, and approximately two more weeks to achieve full recovery.
What are the risks associated with surgery for the Carina Fully Implantable Hearing Device?
The risks involved with the Carina Fully Implantable Hearing Device surgery include the normal risks of an operative procedure and general anesthesia. Be sure to speak with your surgeon for additional information regarding risks associated with surgery and general anesthesia.
How long does surgery take?
The surgery usually takes about two hours.
Does the procedure require an overnight stay in the hospital?
The surgical procedure for the Carina Fully Implantable Hearing Device can be performed as either an outpatient or an inpatient procedure. Whether or not an overnight stay in the hospital is required will be left to the discretion of your surgeon.
