Bionic balance: implant aims to steady patients with inner ear disorder

NCT ID NCT04918745

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial is testing a combined cochlear and vestibular implant (CVI) in 13 people who have lost both hearing and balance function due to bilateral vestibulopathy. The implant stimulates the nerves for hearing and balance to see if it can improve stability, vision during movement, and walking. Participants will use the device in the hospital for 3 weeks and then at home for 15 months to evaluate safety and effectiveness.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Cochlear Vestibular Implant (CVI) - a device that stimulates both hearing and balance nerves
What this could lead to
If it works, this could lead to a new treatment option for people with severe balance disorders, improving their stability and quality of life.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, early proof-of-concept study with only 13 participants. The device is experimental, and it may not work for everyone or could cause side effects like worsened hearing or balance.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Maastricht UMC+

    Maastricht, Limburg, 6229 HX, Netherlands

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