All About Auditory Brainstem Implants for Rehabilitation Specialists
Release Date: 11/12/2024
Neurofibromatosis Type 2 and Dual Sensory Loss: A Recipient’s Perspective
MED-EL Podcast
Hannah McPierzie is an international disability advocate, speaker, and consultant who joins us in the studio to discuss Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), its far-reaching consequences, and the complex decisions individuals and families may face following diagnosis. Drawing on both her professional and lived experience, Hannah shares her journey with NF2, including the progression of hearing loss, her experience with auditory brainstem implants (ABIs), and the process of navigating a dual sensory loss. She offers valuable insights into self-advocacy, communication accessibility, and what it means...
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Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Children with Hearing Loss
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, we take an in-depth look at Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for children with cochlear implants who have complex needs. Joined by AAC expert and researcher Gunilla Thunberg, the discussion covers everything from defining AAC, best-practice for assessments, and use of predictive text. This conversation gives all professionals working with children with hearing loss valuable insights to help them get started with AAC. Weblinks Watch the fourth episode of MED-EL's on the .
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New Rechargeable Batteries for SONNET 3
MED-EL Podcast
Join Maximilian Schwaninger and Mario Schinnerl as they take a closer look at the test results and user experiences behind the new Standard Pro and Micro Pro rechargeable batteries for SONNET 3. Discover how extended runtimes, compact design, and simplified handling make these new options perfect for everyday use. Weblinks:
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The Game-Changing Waterproof Technology of SONNET 3
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger is joined by Scott Murray, a long-time cochlear implant user and outdoor enthusiast, to explore how the waterproof technology of SONNET 3 is transforming everyday life. From rainy concerts to water sports, discover how this next-level technology brings freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind to CI users—no matter the weather. Weblinks:
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From AudioLink to AudioLink XT
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Patrick Spörr, Product Manager for External Devices at MED-EL, talks with Andreas Neurauter from MED-EL's R&D department about the new AudioLink XT and its standout features. They explore how this next-generation connectivity device builds on user feedback to offer ASHA-based TV streaming, FM receiver support, improved battery efficiency, broader compatibility, and more. Weblinks:
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Closest to Natural Hearing - The Future
MED-EL Podcast
In this final episode of Closest to Natural Hearing, Marcus Schmidt speaks with Dr. Hinrich Staecker and Dr. Peter Nopp about the future of cochlear implantation. They explore how advances in AI, anatomy‑based fitting, hearing preservation, and fully implantable systems are reshaping outcomes for current and future CI users. The conversation also highlights emerging developments in gene therapy, drug‑emitting electrodes, robotics, and individualized surgical planning—all pointing toward a future in which hearing with a CI is more natural, seamless, and accessible than ever. Literature...
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Preserving Hearing in Cochlear Implantation
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Marcus Schmidt discusses with Prof. Stefan Weder and Dr. Ilona Anderson how a flexible electrode array design and advanced surgical tools, such as OTOPLAN and OTODRIVE, are helping surgeons achieve more precise outcomes while supporting residual hearing preservation by protecting the delicate structures in the cochlea. They also look at the latest clinical data on hearing preservation, including FDA-approval for hearing preservation, and they discuss how these innovations are improving quality of life for CI users. Weblinks: Literature References: Aebischer, P.,...
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Users’ Perspectives on Closest to Natural Hearing
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Ilona Anderson welcomes Mariia Pazi and Krystian Koper, two cochlear implant users with unique hearing journeys. Together, they explore what “closest to natural hearing” means from a user’s perspective. Weblinks:
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Anatomy-Based Fitting
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Jennifer Robinson is joined by Dr. Anja Kurz and Dr. Margaret Dillon for an in‑depth look at anatomy‑based fitting (ABF) and its role in reducing frequency–place mismatch. Together, they explore what makes ABF so impactful—from the underlying science to everyday clinical challenges—and discuss recent findings that show how individualized frequency alignment can improve listening comfort, sound quality, and speech comprehension. Literature References: Buchman CA, Dillon MT, King ER, Adunka MC, Adunka OF, Pillsbury HC. Influence of cochlear implant insertion...
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Individualized Cochlear Implantation
MED-EL Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Peter Nopp is joined by Prof. Griet Mertens and Dr. Masoud Zoka Assadi to explore individualized cochlear implantation, from anatomy-based electrode selection to anatomy-based fitting. They also explain how OTOPLAN supports clinicians before and after surgery by visualizing the patient’s unique cochlea, guiding electrode selection, and calculating frequencies tonotopically for a precise postoperative fitting. Literature References: Creff G, Lambert C, Coudert P, Pean V, Laurent S, Godey B. Comparison of Tonotopic and Default Frequency Fitting for Speech Understanding in...
info_outlineJulie Kosaner, a pediatric audiologist, teacher of the deaf, and MED-EL consultant, joins the vodcast series to share her wealth of knowledge on fitting and rehabilitation with auditory brainstem implants (ABIs). We discuss ABI’s early beginnings and her current thoughts on how patients with ABIs can achieve the best audiological and intervention outcomes.
Weblinks
Watch the second episode of MED-EL's Beyond Basics Rehabilitation Vodcast, available with English, Spanish, and German captions, on the MED-EL Academy with your free account. There you can also access a free resource on ABIs and view videos of ABI recipients.