Hearing the difference GN Otometrics

HEARING THE DIFFERENCE

Part of the GN group, GN Otometrics is known for its innovative solutions for all types of ear-related diagnostics and as the largest global supplier of computerised audiology and hearing-instrument fitting equipment. Abigail Saltmarsh finds out more.

GN Otometrics already has a reputation as a specialist in the field of diagnostic and screening equipment for hearing and balance-related issues. Soren Holst, president of the company, and senior vice-president of the GN group, of which the company is part, says this reputation is only set to grow, along with product sales and the size of the company, as demand for its innovations increases.

“We are a global player in the industry, with more than 50 years’ experience and a worldwide network of customers using our products,” he explains. “We have already increased the size of the company significantly, and, as a result, have had to move to a larger space in Copenhagen. We are growing at double digit rates – and have been doing so for the past two years. We expect this to continue for the foreseeable future.”

A wide range of products

GN Otometrics is a subsidiary of the Denmarkbased GN ReSound, a leading international manufacturer of advanced hearing healthcare solutions. GN Otometrics, which designs and supplies a spectrum of ear-related diagnostics and computerised audiology and hearinginstrument fitting equipment, markets its products under the brand names of Madsen, Aurical, Hortmann and ICS.

“We have a broad range of products, every-thing from when the clinician first screens a newborn baby within 48 hours of its birth through to the fitting of equipment if it is required,” says Mr Holst. “Our products are used by clinicians in more than 70 countries across the world.”

ICS Impulse

“Keeping one step ahead of the competition is vital in this sector,” he goes on, “and making technological advances is essential. As such, GN Otometrics has a continual focus on product development and research.

“Over the past decade, we have been working with a research team in Sydney and have developed a whole body of scientific material and products based on a new way of diagnosing people with balance problems,” he explains. “From this, we have jointly developed a new product, ICS Impulse.”

ICS Impulse is the world’s first video head impulse testing device to combine high levels of accuracy with unrivalled patient comfort. It provides precise data based on real life, high frequency stimuli. It also detects more abnormalities than visual observation and reduces false negatives.

“This new device has also greatly reduced the amount of time it takes to carry out one of these tests,” he stresses. “These tests can take up to 45 minutes now, but with the ICS Impulse this time can be shortened to 10 minutes. Even more importantly perhaps, patient discomfort has been greatly reduced.”

Improved Aurical

The response to the ICS Impulse has been overwhelming, he says. Doctors and other professionals are responding with nothing but positive feedback.

The other recently launched device that is also causing a stir in the field is the latest Aurical equipment. This has set the industry standard for hearing aid fitting equipment.

The system interfaces seamlessly with NOAH, the industry’s fitting and programming software platform. Portable and lightweight, it handles virtually every audiological function necessary in a hearing clinic.

“For the past 15 years, we have been adding to and improving Aurical, which was the first fully computer-based fitting system. Over the past three years, we have been introducing replacement modules for the original equipment. This last module to be introduced means the whole Aurical system is now new. It is a fantastic clinical device that has been very well-received. Indeed, the largest clinic in the world placed an order for hundreds before it was even launched!”

State-of-the-art

GN Otometrics outsources production of its components but carries out final assembly, quality control and calibration in Copenhagen. Its reach is global and it expects to see worldwide growth.

“We are seeing our highest growth rates in places such as the BRIC countries,” admits Mr Holst. “But we expect our business to increase in all the markets in which we have a presence. Our emphasis on innovation will continue. We have a reputation for our achievements and are extremely positive about the future, which will see us continuing to launch new products and to replace our existing platform with ever more accurate pieces of equipment.” n