Otologics in Colorado have successfully created and tested the world's first and most efficient hearing aid, taking the hearing impaired a step closer to a normal life.

Traditional hearing aids have proven very helpful to individuals with hearing problems, but along with the devices came notions that formed a social stigma against the device. It also hinders activities such as swimming, diving and showering.

With the new technology, the user has a piston-like device implanted near the small bones in the ear. The piston responds to a microphone powered by a coil and a battery embedded under the skin. This improves the hearing by allowing vibrations to better reach the inner ear and get to the brain without a hitch.

The battery and the coil can be replaced every five years, while the piston and the microphone can stay in the body permanently and monitored through regular checkups.

In tests conducted with 20 respondents, all of the patients said that their hearing improved to normal or near-normal levels with the comfort of having a device that doesn't impede activities. "Individuals implanted with the system have said that it becomes a part of you--there's a greater sense of security." says Otologics CEO Jose Bedoya.