Auditory Brainstem Implants were approved in October 2000 by the FDA for use in patients with Neurofibromatosis Type II. When the tumors associated with NF2 are surgically removed, it is sometimes necessary to remove parts of the auditory nerve, resulting in total deafness. Brainstem implants bypass the auditory nerve and cochlea to instead transmit sound signals directly to the brain. See website at following locations for additional information: