First Switch-Free Speech Processor Available in the World
Durham, NC -- MED-EL Corporation announced today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the new OPUS 2 cochlear implant speech processor. The OPUS 2 is the first speech processor that is designed for switch-free operation, with special features for bilaterally implanted listeners. It is operated entirely by a remote control unit, the FineTuner™, which enables changes to settings without removing the processor from the ear. The FineTuner is designed to communicate with two speech processors, reaching new heights in ease of use for people who use cochlear implants in both ears. An integrated telecoil and a universal direct input for wireless FM and Bluetooth® connection (using third-party FM and Bluetooth equipment) ensure easy and comfortable interaction with the surrounding world. An optional private alert indicates program changes and battery status to the user.
Most Sophisticated Technologies
The OPUS 2 also features the latest high-performance microchip technology, developed to offer greater sound detail and clarity with MED-EL's proprietary Fine Structure Processing™ (FSP) sound coding strategy. "Fine structure" refers to the detailed pitch and timing cues that are particularly important when listening to music or having conversations in noisy environments. Fine structure cues have not been deliberately included in cochlear implant coding strategies up to now. A High Definition Continuous Interleaved Sampling (HD-CIS) coding strategy is also offered.
"The OPUS 2 represents a significant technological development," said Kim Jackson, Vice President of Clinical and Sales for North America. "It is the smallest speech processor available for any cochlear implant system, and offers listeners state of the art sound processing technology. We are proud to lead the industry in research and new product innovation to better serve people with severe to profound hearing loss."
Size, Weight and Comfort Matters
With a weight of only 10.1g (incl. the new DaCapo ear-level rechargeable battery) and a thickness of 7.0 - 8.7 mm, the OPUS 2 is clearly the thinnest and lightest speech processor on the market. With a modular system of interchangeable wearing options, the OPUS 2 can be customized to meet individual needs, including special solutions for toddlers and practical options for active teens and the elderly. The processor is available in six colors.
Energy-efficient technology ensures an exceptionally long battery life, typically three to five days of use on a single set of disposable batteries. An LED indicator signals error conditions and provides troubleshooting support, which is especially useful for parents and teachers working with young children with implants.
The FSP strategy is approved for use by cochlear implant users with at least six months experience with the Continuous Interleaved Sampling (CIS+) or HD-CIS programming options, and who have the cognitive ability to express a choice in coding strategy preference. The safety and effectiveness of FSP have not yet been established in pre-lingually deaf children and it is not indicated for use in that population.
The latest member of the MED-EL MAESTROTM cochlear implant system
The OPUS 2 speech processor completes the MAESTROTM cochlear implant system. MAESTROTM is comprised of four compatible components of cochlear implants (SONATATI100, PULSARCI100) and speech processors (OPUS 1, OPUS 2) providing surgeons and candidates the option of selecting the best possible solution for each individual case. The combined technical features provide opportunities for both the highest wearing comfort and the best possible hearing experience.
About MED-EL Corporation
Since its founders developed one of the world's first cochlear implants in 1975, MED-EL has set new standards in hearing implant technologies, developing and manufacturing technologically advanced hearing solutions for people with varying degrees of hearing loss. MED-EL hearing implant systems, currently used in 80 countries, combine the latest scientific advances, engineering and manufacturing techniques for performance, safety and reliability. MED-EL offers the broadest portfolio of hearing implant systems, including the MAESTRO CI system for those with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss and the unique Vibrant Soundbridge®, a middle ear prosthesis for the treatment of moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss.
For more information, visit www.medel.com or call 888-MED-EL-CI (633-3524).
