Effort Introduces Symphonix' Vibrant(R) Soundbridge™ to Siemens' Core Audiology Customers
SAN JOSE, Calif./PRNewswire/ -- Building on a series of joint business initiatives that began in 1999, Symphonix Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq: SMPX), a hearing technology company, and Siemens, a world leader in hearing instruments, have begun a collaborative outreach program with Siemens' key audiology customers. The program offers new opportunities to these audiologists while introducing them to Symphonix' Vibrant Soundbridge, a semi-implantable hearing device designed to treat moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss.
In 20 cities across the U.S., where there are Vibrant Soundbridge Centers of Excellence, Siemens' representatives invite their customers to Symphonix-sponsored local forums, where Symphonix representatives communicate the benefits of the Vibrant Soundbridge and engage audiologists in long-term patient care and practice-building strategies.
'We are pleased that customers are responding favorably to the Symphonix forums,' said Paul Erickson, president and CEO, Siemens Hearing Instruments, Inc. 'This sort of collaboration gives customers the information they need to take full advantage of new technology and increase business for their practices.'
The latest version of Symphonix' Vibrant Soundbridge incorporates Siemens' advanced, eight-channel digital signal processing (DSP) technology, the same technology used in the Signia™ hearing aid. The device is also programmed using Siemens' PC-based CONNEXX™fitting software, the same software currently used by audiologists worldwide to program Siemens' hearing aids.
'Attending the Siemens/Symphonix forum made it easy for me to learn about the new Vibrant Soundbridge technology,' Ronna Fisher, president, Hearing Health Center, Chicago, Ill., said. 'The day proved to be informative and insightful, with real world examples illustrating the opportunities this new treatment option offers appropriate patients. We look forward to working with Symphonix to take this message to all our patients.'
Kirk Davis, Symphonix' president and chief executive officer, concurred, 'Audiologists are often on the front lines when it comes to the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss, and we want to make sure they have the latest treatment information. Our educational forums are the first step in giving this professional community the tools they need to do their jobs better, and they also pave the way for Symphonix to provide additional support as the Vibrant Soundbridge technology becomes incorporated into day-to-day practice.
We're pleased with the program roll-out to date, and look forward to
continuing to expand it.'
About the Vibrant Soundbridge
The Vibrant Soundbridge is the first implantable middle ear hearing device (IMEHD) to be approved by the FDA. Consisting of two components, one internally implanted and the other externally worn, the Vibrant Soundbridge utilizes direct-drive technology to stimulate the tiny bones in the middle ear, enhancing the natural hearing process. Its unique design addresses the problems commonly associated with acoustic hearing aids such as poor sound quality, feedback, background noise and discomfort. The Vibrant Soundbridge is a safe and effective treatment option for adults with moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss who desire an alternative to acoustic hearing aids.
About Siemens
Siemens is the world's largest manufacturer of hearing aids. Siemens pioneered in-ear amplification in 1913, and today continues to develop new approaches to sound technology. Siemens also offers an extensive selection of audiological software, equipment and support for Hearing Health Care Professionals and has been developing products that have set industry standards for the support and care of hearing impaired persons. More information about Siemens can be found at www.siemens-hearing.com.
About Symphonix
Founded in 1994, Symphonix Devices, Inc. is a hearing technology company dedicated to developing a family of products to improve communication ability and quality of life for the millions of hearing-impaired individuals limited by current hearing solutions.
Symphonix' Vibrant Soundbridge is a surgical implant designed to work with the natural structures of the middle ear to enhance hearing and communication ability for people with hearing impairment. The device can be implanted during a short, outpatient surgical procedure. More information about Symphonix can be found at www.symphonix.com, or by calling 1-800-833-7733.
Except for historical information, statements made in this press release are 'forward looking statements' and are subject to a number of uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's products failing to achieve widespread market acceptance. For further information, refer to the risk factors described in the Company's Form 10Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2001.
