IotaMotion Gets Patent for Cochlear Implant Robot
IotaMotion has announced a new U.S. patent for its robotic cochlear implantation system. This underscores the momentum in highly specialized, minimally invasive procedures.
The newly issued U.S. Patent No. 12,558,123 strengthens IotaMotion's intellectual property related to robotic positioning and control during cochlear implant surgery. CEO Mike Lobinsky states that protecting the technology that standardizes electrode insertion is crucial for sustaining IotaMotion's leadership as iotaSOFT adoption expands. The iotaSOFT system, designed for consistent electrode insertion, aims to preserve delicate inner ear structures. It's the first FDA-cleared robotic-assisted system for cochlear implant insertion and is available commercially in the United States for patients aged four and older. IotaMotion's technology addresses a significant unmet need, given that less than 5% of the 60 million people worldwide who could benefit from cochlear implants actually receive them. IotaMotion's iotaSOFT system improves control during cochlear implant electrode insertion, resulting in smoother and steadier movements compared to the human hand, which reduces trauma during surgery. The system is compatible with all three CI manufacturers. A study by Khan et al. (2026) indicated that robotic-assisted insertion is superior in maintaining long-term stable hearing, with an 85% hearing preservation rate compared to 71% in manual cases.
