What is TICI UNICO?
With the launch of TICI UNICO, the first fully implanted cochlear implant (CI) is now available for clinical use. TICI UNICO is currently the world’s only commercially available cochlear implant that has all essential components, including the microphone, audio processor, and power supply, implanted completely beneath the skin.
For ENT specialists, TICI UNICO introduces an additional treatment option for their patients with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss who may benefit from a cochlear implant and are seeking a fully implanted hearing solution.
Key considerations in cochlear implant treatment
TICI UNICO expands the portfolio of cochlear implant solutions. As the world’s first commercially available fully implanted and invisible cochlear implant, it combines continuous hearing, implanted microphone technology, and freedom from external components.
TICI UNICO is an additional treatment option for patients with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. ENTs should refer suitable candidates to specialized cochlear implant centers for evaluation.
How is TICI UNICO different from conventional cochlear implants?
Unlike conventional cochlear implant systems that require an externally worn audio processor, TICI UNICO has no external components. Sound is captured through a microphone implanted beneath the skin, allowing users to hear in virtually all everyday situations without having to think about an audio processor.
TICI key features include:
- fully implanted cochlear implant with no external components
- continuous hearing, including during sleep, sports, showering and in water
- rechargeable implanted battery with up to 40 hours of use per charge
- continuous hearing while charging the device
- MR conditional at 1.5 and 3 Tesla under specified conditions
- Hearing performance comparable to conventional cochlear implant systems
Which patients may be candidates for TICI UNICO?
TICI UNICO is intended for individuals with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids and who would otherwise be candidates for conventional cochlear implantation. Suitability is assessed individually by a cochlear implant team.
The system may be particularly relevant for patients who:
- prefer an invisible hearing solution
- do not want to use external components
- want to hear 24/7
- seek greater freedom and simplicity in managing their hearing solution
How is surgery different from conventional cochlear implantion?
The surgical procedure is very similar to that of conventional cochlear implants. Additional steps involve placement of the implanted microphone and microphone lead. According to surgeons experienced with TICI UNICO, the increase in surgical time is not significant and remains within the range of established otologic procedures.
Activation and fittings follow the same established procedures as used for conventional cochlear implants.
Can TICI UNICO patients hear while sleeping?
Yes. One of the TICI UNICO’s major benefits is continuous hearing, including during sleep. Users can remain aware of important sounds around them, such as alarm signals or a crying child, throughout the night. The implant can also be switched off whenever desired.
How does hearing performance with TICI UNICO compare to conventional cochlear implants?
Data from clinical studies and experience to date indicate hearing outcomes comparable to that of conventional cochlear implant systems. Long-term hearing outcomes, quality-of-life benefits, and user satisfaction continue to be evaluated in ongoing studies.
Practical recommendation for ENT specialists
Consider referring patients with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids for cochlear implant evaluation. TICI UNICO may be of particular interest to candidates seeking continuous hearing, complete invisibility, and freedom from external components. Final candidacy is determined by a specialized cochlear implant team.
References
A short summary of the TICI feasibility study can be found in our Science Update.
Find more information on TICI UNICO here.
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