ClearDrum: the artifical ear drum – translational science developing new solutions for patients

We are set to revolutionise how people with ongoing perforated eardrum issues and chronic middle ear disease are treated, after developing a tiny and transparent new implant, no larger than a thumbnail.

The ClearDrum device aims to provide an off-the-shelf, near-permanent implant. We have been partnered with Deakin University’s Future Fibers Hub for the last 10 years to develop a prototype based on silk fibroin biomaterial

ClearDrum will provide the first novel 3D-shaped and acoustically optimised artificial eardrum. The specific shape allows easier surgical insertion, addressing a wide size range of eardrum perforations, while preventing common issues such as retraction and adhesion.

The transparent material will enable ongoing monitoring of healing and resolution of middle ear conditions by routine otoscopy. ClearDrum has been evaluated by national and international ENT surgeons during materials development and cadaver trials.

A prosthetic device designed for those with chronic middle ear disease leading to perforation.

At a purpose-built, high-tech laboratory and training facility unfolds a delicate surgical test and training procedure conducted by Ear Science founder, Professor Marcus Atlas.

The operation is a pivotal turning point for the ClearDrum R&D; testing prototypes of the Ear Science Institute Australia-designed device, performed in conjunction with colleagues from around the world via remote video link.

The precise design and fit of the ClearDrum is modified with group collaboration involving bio-mechanic technicians, researchers and medical professionals.

Prototyping work for optimisation of the shape has been done, so now we get to a point where we’ve done a tech transfer to an actual motor control manufacturer in the US, and they are developing the metric for the scale of production.

The first-of-its kind in the world, ClearDrum will revolutionise repair and healing of the ear drum for millions of people globally suffering with chronic middle ear disease and perforations caused by disease or traumatic injury.

ClearDrum is a synthetic ear implant that uses biology from the silkworm to replicate and replace the tympanic membrane of the ear drum. Similar to the way a contact lens works, the ClearDrum device sits over the existing ear drum, but will organically graft to the existing biology of the ear structure.

The delicate procedure is classified as brain surgery so the simulated surgical environment in the lab provides the suction, irrigation, oxygen and power supply required to perform the attachment in a real-life scenario.

The temporal bone from a cadaver is used with the external and internal anatomy of the ear viewed under an electron microscope.

Dr Filippo Valente works on the novel silk biomaterials to develop medical devices and vehicles such as ClearDrum, to deliver drugs and therapeutics to the ear.

The goal is for ClearDrum to replicate the movement and function of a typical eardrum so it can transfer soundwaves, and the surgeon can see through the ClearDrum to gauge whether there’s disease developing again.