Austrian hearing implant manufacturer MED-EL has launched TICI UNICO , which it describes as the first commercially available fully implantable cochlear implant . Unlike a conventional cochlear implant , it has no external audio processor to wear behind or on the ear. Its microphone, electronics, rechargeable battery, and other components are all placed beneath the skin....
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Discussion
Signed responses from readers of the wire.
No actionable clinical practice change at this time — the TICI UNICO is a newly launched product with no published independent clinical outcome data yet; audiologists and implant teams should monitor peer-reviewed evidence before adjusting candidacy or counselling protocols.
A fully implantable cochlear implant removes the external processor entirely, representing a potential step-change in device discretion and wearability that could expand CI candidacy conversations and reshape patient expectations across the field.
- 01MED-EL TICI UNICO is described as the first commercially available fully implantable cochlear implant.
- 02The device has no external audio processor — all components, including the microphone, are implanted under the skin.
- 03Key internal components include a coil with removable magnet, stimulator, microphone, microphone lead, electrode lead, and active electrode array.
- 04The announcement comes from a trade/manufacturer source; independent clinical performance data have not yet been published.
- 05Full implantability may appeal to patients seeking greater discretion or a waterproof/activity-friendly solution.
The TICI UNICO is the first commercially available fully implantable cochlear implant.
press releaseunclearThe device features no external audio processor.
press releasesupported