Residual Hearing Protection for EAS Users Many people with severe to profound deafness can still measure some of their hearing, especially in the low frequency range. This measurable hearing is called residual hearing. These patients are often the best candidates for EAS. Protecting the residual hearing of EAS users is critical because it allows the patient to take advantage of the residual natural hearing. While cochlear implants provide a significant hearing benefit, being able to take full advantage of residual hearing provides a superior listening experience for the user. The MED-EL electrode bundle is designed to help protect residual hearing, as it is gently inserted into the cochlea.The MED-EL electrodes are soft and flexible, and the MED-EL features wavy wiring specifically designed to protect residual hearing. When inserted into the cochlea, the electrodes gently follow the natural shape of the cochlea. As a result, the surgeon can use minimal insertion force when placing the electrode into the cochlea. Other brands of hard electrodes require a very high insertion force, which increases the risk on one hand and damages the delicate nerve cells and hearing structures on the other. Residual Hearing Protection for Cochlear Implant Users Among patients who are considering cochlear implants, there are some who have a small amount of residual hearing. This group of patients is often not entirely comfortable with cochlear implants. Preserving residual hearing in this group of cochlear implant users is still important because it is a test of the absence of neurological damage. Ensuring that residual hearing is not impaired is an important consideration for cochlear implantation, especially in pediatric patients, because impaired residual hearing may affect their chances of using future technology. It is possible that a new technology in the future, such as a new device, biologic or pharmaceutical, that is more non-invasive, will be more successful in addressing hearing problems. At MEDEL, we take into account your future and your existing needs. This philosophy has led us to design the softest and most non-invasive electrode bundles to preserve your remaining residual hearing and your delicate cochlear structures.