Middle ear magnet implant, attachment device and method, and test instrument andmethod

摘要

An attachment device for a middle ear implant includes a first loop adapted to mount over structure in a middle ear. A second loop is connected to the first loop and adapted to mount over an object for use in the middle ear. A related method includes sliding a loop along at least part of a middle ear ossicle or prosthesis such that an object connected to the loop is disposed adjacent the ossicle or prosthesis. A method of testing for a magnet in a middle ear of a patient includes: inserting a coil at least into an outer ear canal of the patient adjacent the middle ear having the magnet; selectably aiming the coil relative to the middle ear; driving the coil with an alternating current signal at each selected aiming; obtaining at least one indication in response to driving the coil with an alternating current signal at each selected aiming; and determining a functional or positional characteristic of the magnet from the obtained indication. This method can be implemented with a plurality of coils. A related test instrument includes: at least one coil; and a connected handle to enable a user of the test instrument to insert the coil(s) into at least the outer ear canal and to direct electromagnetic signals at different directions relative to the middle ear.