Research Initiatives
MED-EL is committed to adding to the scientific and clinical knowledge of the hearing healthcare community with the goal of using that information to influence the design and development of future technologies. Divided into to teams, MED-EL's Research Department works hard everyday to overcome hearing loss as a barrier to communication and quality of life.
Research Laboratory
Our work in the lab is focused on developing new methods of processing sound for MED-EL’s cochlear implants. During a typical week of testing, participants perform speech tests and psychophysical procedures. Speech reception and speech quality are evaluated in quiet and simulated noisy environments. Psychophysics describes a field of study in which we evaluate the perception (psycho-) of changes to one aspect of a (physical) stimulus, like loudness or pitch. We use a computer in place of the external cochlear implant audio processor, allowing us to test new algorithms and strategies that take advantage of the capabilities of the implanted components, but are not yet possible on the current generation of our commercial devices.
Clinical Research
Our North American clinical research team strives to enhance scientific and clinical knowledge by supporting cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of candidacy and outcomes for MED-EL hearing solutions. New ideas and advances in hearing technology require continued research with MED-EL recipients. This webpage lists ongoing research projects sponsored or supported by MED-EL that are currently open for enrollment. Candidacy and participation requirements vary depending on the specific study.
Current Research Studies
If you are a cochlear implant candidate or a MED-EL recipient and are interested in one of these research opportunities, please click on the link for additional details.
Expanded Indications in the Adult Cochlear Implant Population
Study sponsor: MED-EL Corporation
Study aim: To expand FDA-approved labeling for MED-EL cochlear implants to include adults who have moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss and obtain limited benefit from appropriately fit hearing aids
Currently enrolling: Individuals 18 years of age and older with bilateral, moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss
Expanded Indications in the MED-EL Pediatric Cochlear Implant Population
Study sponsor: MED-EL Corporation
Study aim: To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of MED‐EL cochlear implants in children who fall outside the current FDA‐approved candidacy criteria and, yet, continue to demonstrate insufficient functional access to sound
Currently enrolling: Individuals 7 months to 6 years of age with bilateral severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss or mild sloping to profound hearing loss
BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Implant in Adults
Study sponsor: MED-EL Corporation
Study aim: To assess safety and effectiveness of the BONEBRIDGE Bone Conduction Implant for adults with mixed or conductive hearing loss
Currently enrolling: Individuals 18 years of age and older with conductive or mixed hearing loss
