Abstract A prosthesis for surgically replacing the three bones of the middle ear when said bones are defective or missing. The prosthesis consists basically of two struts held mechanically and loosely in close proximity and parallel to and partly overlapping each other in such a manner as to allow their combined length to adjust freely to movements of the tympanic membrane without tearing or breaking connections to delicate tissues, while maintaining continuous transmission of sound oscillations from the tympanic membrane to the oval window. The transmission of sound oscillations between the struts is accomplished by a magnetic couple. The proximal strut is attached to the tympanic membrane and the distal strut is attached to the oval window using established surgical procedures. Some such procedures are briefly described elsewhere in this specification.
A Self Adjusting Ossicle Replacement Prosthesis consisting of two struts mechanically and loosely held in proximity and parallel to and partly overlapping each other so that their combined length may freely adjust to unidirectional longitudinal movements of the one with respect to the other, to be surgically securely attached to the central area of the tympanic membrane by one end of one strut and to the oval window diaphragm by the other end of the other strut and with the struts maGnetically coupled together so as to transmit sound oscillations from the tympanic membrane to the oval window without injury or interruption of sound transmission as the tympanic membrane is moved inward or outward by pressure changes, swelling, etc.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
119 words
A Self Adjusting Ossicle Replacement Prosthesis consisting of two struts mechanically and loosely held in proximity and parallel to and partly overlapping each other so that their combined length may freely adjust to unidirectional longitudinal movements of the one with respect to the other, to be surgically securely attached to the central area of the tympanic membrane by one end of one strut and to the oval window diaphragm by the other end of the other strut and with the struts maGnetically coupled together so as to transmit sound oscillations from the tympanic membrane to the oval window without injury or interruption of sound transmission as the tympanic membrane is moved inward or outward by pressure changes, swelling, etc.