How has animal research helped people with hearing loss?
Without data obtained from studies of the ear and its functions in animals, we would not have the detailed understanding necessary to diagnose and treat hearing disorders. In 1961 George von B*k*sy received the Nobel prize in Physiology and Medicine for his work revealing the basic mechanisms of inner ear function. Additional work in animals has led to refinement of von B*k*sy’s work on inner ear function as well as a basic understanding of how the brain analyzes sounds. Today we have the basis for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of many forms of deafness and other hearing disorders. Still, much remains to be learned. Medical applications of this work include: • Diagnostic techniques to determine the nature and location of hearing disorders. • More effective hearing-aid designs. • Prosthetic devices, e.g., the cochlear implant or “bionic ear”, to help deaf people hear again. • Noise control standards and devices to protect the ear from damaging sounds. • Standards and procedures fo
