Cochlear implants

Cochlear implants, or 'bionic ears', are small devices that are implanted within the ear to directly stimulate the auditory nerve, enabling even profoundly deaf people a sense of sound.

Deafness Research UK has funded research into more effective cochlear implant devices and services, including the development of assessment and rehabilitation procedures for children, to ensure that they obtain maximum benefit from this technology.

We believe exciting new work on the nerve supply to the ear will soon improve the effectiveness of implants and increase the number of patients able to benefit.