Implanted hearing systems specialist Envoy Medical has secured a European Patent for a hearing device.

The patent no. 3858425 granted by the European Patent Office is titled "Implantable Modular Cochlear Implant System with Communication System and Network".

It pertains to Envoy Medical's Acclaim cochlear implant (Acclaim CI).

This system is designed to process input signals from an implantable source as well as a wireless receiving device.

It will then produce a stimulation signal based on these inputs and a programmable mixing ratio representative of their relative contributions to the stimulation signal.

The Acclaim CI utilises a sensor that leverages the ear's natural anatomy for sound capture, as opposed to traditional microphones.

This device aims to serve individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss, which conventional hearing aids cannot adequately address.

It is currently indicated for adult patients who meet the eligibility criteria set by healthcare professionals.

In 2019, the Acclaim CI received the Breakthrough Device Designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

However, the fully implanted device remains investigational and is limited by US law to investigational use only.

In addition to the Acclaim CI, Envoy Medical offers the Esteem Fully Implanted Active Middle Ear Implant (FI-AMEI), which is said to be the only FDA-approved device for adults with moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss.

It provides continuous hearing capability without external components or ear canal obstructions, offering users a discreet and maintenance-free solution.

Activation of the device eliminates the need for daily use of an external personal programmer.