Implantable and Un-implantable Hearing Aid Sends Shock Waves to Users

Advanced Bionics took swift action to recall the company’s HiRes 90K cochlear implant device and all un-implantable devices that have been distributed. This hearing aid recall was initiated following two reports from users who experienced excessively loud sounds, shocking sensations and a high level of discomfort. These side effects occurred within eight to ten days of initial use of the hearing aid.

At present, Advanced Bionics does not know why the HiRes 90K cochlear implant device and the company’s unimplantable devices are producing such side effects. The company is working with the Food and Drug Administration to determine the root cause that prompted the hearing aid recall. Typically, flaws in the design of the product or in safeguards of the product are the reasons for malfunction in products.

Hearing aids have come a long way from the first ear trumpet style versions of the 1700’s. By the mid 1850’s, a thin metal device was designed to meet specific needs for the hearing impaired. Nearing the 1900’s, ear tubes with speaker connections gained popularity. By the 1940’s, more modern hearing aids were developed and were offered in a variety of sizes to meet the specific needs of individual users. By the end of the 50’s, hearing aid styles were smaller due to advancements in microphone and battery technology.  In the 1990’s, digital processing hearing aids took over the marketplace, which provided greater clarity, a full range of tones and a more discreet appearance.  With the advent of digital technology, designs specifications have changed and hearing aid manufacturers are dedicated to creating advanced design specifications that do not pose risks for consumers.

Hearing aid companies that uncover risks in their products must perform an investigation to determine the reason for the risk. The company must correct the problem in order to sell the product to the public.

Burton Padove, Indiana and Illinois lawyer, is available to help those who are injured because of defective products.  He can be reached at (877) 446 5294.