China’s National Medical Products Administration has granted approval for the Nurotron WH-01A, the country’s inaugural auditory brainstem implant. Developed by researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Zhejiang Nurotron Biotechnology, this Class III medical device is intended for individuals unable to use standard cochlear implants due to inner-ear issues or missing cochlear nerves. By transmitting electrical signals directly to the brainstem, the system bypasses traditional auditory pathways. Clinical trials involving children aged two to six demonstrated a 97% effectiveness rate after one year. This regulatory milestone aligns with China’s broader strategic initiative to lead in brain-computer interface technology by 2030. The government is actively promoting the commercialization of such devices to address conditions ranging from deafness to neurological disorders, with the domestic market projected to experience significant growth over the coming years.
Source : [Sixth Tone](https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1019153/China Approves Nation’s First Brainstem Implant for Deafness)
Photo : Sixth Tone
