how to choose between brands?

[Guest guest]

though for me it is all just starting, I do already have an idea about

which brand implant I'd like.

BUT......now that I am getting more information, I get a bit confused

and start to doubt.

how do you choose between brands if you are allowed to choose?

what should you consider?

please help

berti

[Guest guest]

Hi Berti

It is hard to make a choice, when something like this is being

considered. However, what is important to me is RELIABILITY of the

brand, how many are being used in the world, how easy they are to use,

flexibility of mapping, and backward compatability.

Reliability, because you don't want to go through surgery and then

have the device fail and have to go through it again. So choose a

company that has a good reliability rate.

How many are being used in the world, because if a company has been

around a long time, and has implanted a lot of people, then they are

doing something right. More experience, and no matter where you go, you

can get help if you need it.

Ease of use. Do you want to use ONLY rechargeable batteries? Do you

want to have the option of using throw away batteries? Do you want to be

able to use both?

Felxibility of mapping: How many different mapping strategies will be

available to you. ONE, Two, or 5 or more Plus all the variations of

each mapping strategy. Because a " one size fits all " approach is not

good for something as individual as hearing.

Backward compatability: Will your internal array allow for upgrades?

Will your company make upgrades available as technology improves?

So, don't just look at what is being offered today. Look at the past,

as far as reliability and history plus how many people worldwide are

using the product. And look to the future, are upgrades possible, will

your company offer upgrades for your implanted device.

Good luck,

Posted by: " bertipeeters " Berti.Peeters@... bertipeeters

Mon Dec 11, 2006 7:46 am (PST)

though for me it is all just starting, I do already have an idea about

which brand implant I'd like.

BUT......now that I am getting more information, I get a bit confused

and start to doubt.

how do you choose between brands if you are allowed to choose?

what should you consider?

please help

berti