Innovative hearing implant procedure done at Mediclinic Pietermaritzburg

Dr Muhammed Essa, ENT at Mediclinic Pietermaritzburg, recently performed a Vibrant Sound Bridge (VSB) implantation.

This procedure offers new hope for patients with hearing loss. This groundbreaking hearing restoration procedure is the first for Pietermaritzburg.

The advanced middle-ear implant provides an effective alternative for individuals who are unable to benefit from conventional hearing aids. Traditional hearing aids amplify sound through the ear canal; while this device works by directly stimulating the structures of the middle ear; delivering clearer, natural sound quality.

The procedure involves an internal implant that is placed surgically beneath the skin, with a small external audio processor worn behind the ear.

According to Dr Essa, “This new technology represents a significant advancement in hearing rehabilitation. Because the device stimulates the middle ear structures, patients often experience clearer sound, improved speech understanding, and a more natural listening experience.”

Some of the benefits for patients include:

• improved clarity and speech understanding
• discreet design with minimal external visibility
• comfort for patients who cannot wear traditional hearing aids and bypasses damaged portions of the outer or middle ear
• patients who have chronic ear canal infections
• reduced feedback and distortion commonly associated with hearing aids
• more natural sound quality

The VSB implant offers excellent hearing outcomes, straightforward surgery and proven reliability. “The patient in question has recovered well from surgery and is very happy with the results. She is excited to participate in day-to-day conversations now that her hearing has improved. Her sensori-neural hearing loss was significant, and for this reason the VSB was the perfect match for my patient over conventional solutions,” Dr Essa explains.

Innovations and advances in medical technology aimed at enhancing patients' quality of life significantly contribute to improving communication, overall well-being, and social interaction.

Patients need a comprehensive assessment by an ear, nose and throat [ENT] specialist and audiologist to determine their suitability.

Innovative procedures such as this highlight the hospital’s commitment to bringing medical technologies with specialised surgical ENT (Otorhinolaryngologist) expertise to our community.

Dr Essa has been in private practice since 2006 and with Mediclinic Pietermaritzburg since 2008. His core focus is on head and neck oncology, paediatric airway diseases, as well as skull base and pituitary surgery.