Tinnitus Implant for Tinnitus
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants are not currently taking antidepressants, anxiolytics (medications for anxiety), or antipsychotics. If you are on these medications, you may need to stop taking them to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the Tinnitus Implant System treatment for tinnitus?
Research shows that cochlear implants, which are similar to the Tinnitus Implant System, can significantly reduce tinnitus in many patients. In one study, five out of six patients experienced tinnitus suppression with cochlear implants, suggesting that electrical stimulation devices like the Tinnitus Implant System may help reduce tinnitus symptoms.12345
Is the Tinnitus Implant System safe for humans?
The Tinnelec Implant, a type of tinnitus implant, was tested in a small study and showed some benefits for tinnitus relief. However, one patient needed a device replacement due to unrelated hearing loss, and others switched to different implants for additional hearing benefits. This suggests the implant is generally safe, but more studies are needed to confirm its safety in a larger group.678910
How does the Tinnitus Implant System treatment differ from other tinnitus treatments?
The Tinnitus Implant System is unique because it uses a non-penetrating electrode to electrically stimulate the auditory nerve, aiming to suppress or mask tinnitus without affecting normal hearing. This approach allows for treatment in patients with normal hearing and can be adapted to address progressive hearing loss by switching to a penetrating electrode if needed.58101112
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial is testing a new device called the Tinnitus Implant System for people with persistent ringing in their ears. The device is surgically implanted and helps reduce the ringing sound. Participants will need to visit the clinic periodically for adjustments and evaluations.
Research Team
Matthew L Carlson, MD
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Eligibility Criteria
Adults over 18 with severe, persistent tinnitus not helped by usual treatments like hearing aids. They should have had tinnitus for at least 6 months but no more than 3 years, and have a certain level of hearing loss and speech recognition ability.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Surgical Implantation
Participants undergo outpatient surgery for the implantation of the Tinnitus Implant System
Device Programming and Testing
Participants attend visits for device programming and audiometric testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Tinnitus Implant System
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Matthew L. Carlson, M.D.
Lead Sponsor