New cochlear implant designed for middle ear

US researchers have announced the creation of a new prototype cochlear implant that can be implanted in the middle ear, offering a wide variety of benefits.

The University of Utah-led study has produced a proof-of-concept device that can be surgically inserted into the ear, with successful tests in the ear canals of four cadavers having been carried out.

Currently, the prototype unit is around the size of a pencil eraser, but scientists state that it must be made smaller and more sensitive before any live human testing can be considered.

However, a fully functional device of this kind would offer numerous advantages compared to external hearing aids, which can be unreliable, stop users from swimming and carry social stigmas.

Senior author Darrin Young, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Utah, said: "Wearing this thing indicates you are somewhat handicapped and that actually prevents quite a percentage of candidates from getting the implant. They worry about the negative image."

According to NHS data, more than ten million people in the UK are currently affected by some form of hearing loss.