Now hear this…

Lately, our ears have perked up plenty hearing about promising new solutions for deafness. We just had to share what we think are three of the most exciting advancements.

3D-printing for ear implant

A surgeon-led team in Texas successfully completed the first ear transplant using the patient’s own ear cells and a 3D printer that offers a less invasive implant process, and more accurate reconstruction. The first human trial for this technology, ten more procedures are scheduled specifically for treatment of microtia—an underdeveloped deformity that usually only affects one external ear. Hear more

Reverse hearing loss due to aging

Certain cancer treatments and antibiotics, noise and age are common causes of irreversible hearing loss—until now. Scientists have discovered the master programming gene for both the inner and outer ear hair cells, which are essential for hearing. If these hair cells die, with this new finding scientists can reprogram the cells and restore quality hearing levels. Read more

Cochlear implants or hearing aids for children?

A study has found that children with hearing loss and developmental delays showed nearly a 25% improvement with cochlear implants compared to hearing aids. Tests also revealed an enhanced quality of life, the ability to adapt in an environment and interact with people, and increased speech and language skills in children with early developmental impairment. Learn more