Bionic ear activated

A CORK twin fitted with a bionic ear had the pioneering device switched on for the first time yesterday.

A CORK twin fitted with a bionic ear had the pioneering device switched on for the first time yesterday.

It is hoped Calum Geary (3) from Ballyhooley will hear his first sounds today after doctors activate auditory brainstem implants inserted to help him hear.

Calum’s parents, Helen and Andrew, older brothers Barry (8) and Matthew (6) and twin Donnacha gathered by his bedside at Manchester University Hospital yesterday.

Doctors performed a 90-minute procedure to monitor the device to ensure it is working correctly. Calum remained unconscious during the procedure.

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“The procedure went fine, he is under observation now for a few hours. We won’t get any results until tomorrow afternoon,” Mr Geary said.

Dr Martin O’Driscoll, originally from Co Clare, led yesterday’s operation.