A BARNARD Castle-based firm of hearing specialists has been selected to offer hi-tech aids considered to be “the contact lenses for hearing”.
Durham Hearing Specialists, in Hall Street, have become the first in the county to offer Lyric, a micro-engineered, disposable hearing aid that can be worn 24 hours a day, even when showering.
The aid, which has a long-lasting battery and moisture protection, is fitted deep within the ear canal, only four millimetres from the ear drum, guided by a high-powered microscope.
Conor Boland, from Durham Hearing Specialists, said: “To fit the Lyric you need specialist training.
“We use a high-powered microscope to make sure the ear is healthy and to get the best fit possible for patients. Because the microscope has two lenses it gives increased depth perception and you can’t fit this device without it.
“Not only does it allow us to see down to the ear drum, but we can see the texture of the drum and the bones behind.”
Marie Bell, from Phonak which supplies the device, said: “The Lyric is the contact lens for the ear and is micro-engineering at its best.
“It needs to be fitted by people with the right skills and expertise and we are especially pleased to be working together with Durham Hearing Specialists.
“It is a bit more expensive than traditional aids, but it is highly specialised.”
The device, which is available on a subscription basis, remains in the ear for up to six weeks before it needs replacing and enables users to go about their normal lives.
Mr Boland added: “It is not the usual thing that we do here, putting things into ears, but it is cutting edge stuff.”
For more information contact Durham Hearing Specialists on 01833 328124.
