Italy Performs First Fully Internal Cochlear Implants

On October 12, 2026, surgical teams in Italy performed the nation’s first simultaneous procedures using a fully internal cochlear implant, with operations taking place at the Piacenza hospital and the Senese hospital. The technology places all system components—including the microphone and battery—entirely beneath the skin, eliminating the external processors traditionally worn.

• Surgeons at Piacenza and Siena performed Italy’s first totally internal cochlear implants on October 12, 2026.
• The device detects sound through the skin and operates continuously, remaining active during sleep and water exposure without external parts.
• The procedures form part of a pilot project backed by the Emilia-Romagna and Toscana regions, as the device is not yet reimbursed by the national health service.

Pilot Program Launches Across Emilia-Romagna and Toscana

The operations on October 12 mark the official start of a pilot project promoted by the Emilia-Romagna and Toscana regional administrations. The procedure at Piacenza was performed by the otolaryngology team directed by Domenico Cuda on an adult patient suffering from severe-to-profound hearing loss. At the Azienda ospedaliero-universitaria Senese, two patients were treated by the otolaryngology unit led by Marco Mandalà. Regional leaders including Emilia-Romagna President Michele de Pascale and Health Councillor Massimo Fabi emphasized the institutional collaboration behind the rollout, while Toscana Health Councillor Monia Monni highlighted the public health investment required for advanced medical technologies.

Technical Mechanics of the Subcutaneous Auditory System

Unlike standard cochlear implants that require external components, this new device features specialized microphones designed to capture sound vibrations directly through the skin. The internal processor converts these acoustic signals into electrical impulses to stimulate the cochlea, routing information to the brain via the auditory nerve. Because no exterior hardware is exposed, the implant functions continuously throughout the day and night. Patients can recharge the internal battery by placing an external charger directly over the implant site without needing to power down the device during the process.

Daily Functionality Versus Traditional Implants

The primary functional difference centers on continuous wear and environmental resistance. Standard cochlear implants require users to remove external sound processors before sleeping, during water-based activities, and during certain sports. The subcutaneous device eliminates these interruptions, allowing users to maintain auditory access while resting, showering, or working in dusty environments. Eliminating external pieces removes the risk of losing or physically damaging an exterior processor.

Piacenza Unit Screens Adult Candidates for Pilot Program

Despite the functional advantages, the technology is restricted to carefully screened adult candidates. Piacenza’s otolaryngology unit, which handles roughly 140 annual implants—80 percent originating from outside the region—will perform an additional nine procedures under the regional pilot program through the end of 2027. Candidate selection favors individuals who live alone, workers exposed to moisture or particulate matter, and those requiring continuous auditory awareness during the night. Because the device does not yet qualify for automatic reimbursement by the Italian National Health Service (SSN), its deployment remains tied strictly to the regional pilot initiatives in Emilia-Romagna and Toscana.

Quotes from Institutional and Clinical Leaders

La sanità pubblica – sottolinea l’Assessora al Diritto alla Salute della Regione Toscana, Monia Monni – vanta eccellenze che a volte passano troppo sotto silenzio e che non tutti conoscono.

Da tempo attendevamo questa innovazione tecnologica, che apre una nuova frontiera nell’impiantistica cocleare – dichiara Domenico Rosario Cuda, direttore dell’Otorinolaringoiatria dell’Azienda Usl di Piacenza – Siamo orgogliosi di poterla proporre ai nostri pazienti, perché amplia ulteriormente le possibilità di cura e consente di rispondere in modo ancora più mirato alle esigenze delle persone con hearing loss.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.