An In-Vitro Insertion-Force Study of Magnetically Guided Lateral-Wall Cochlear-Implant Electrode Arrays.

ABSTRACT:

Hypothesis

Insertion forces can be reduced by magnetically guiding the tip of lateral-wall cochlear-implant electrode arrays during insertion via both cochleostomy and the round window.

Background

Steerable electrode arrays have the potential to minimize intracochlear trauma by reducing the severity of contact between the electrode-array tip and the cochlear wall. However, steerable electrode arrays typically have increased stiffness associated with the steering mechanism. In addition, steerable electrode arrays are typically designed to curve in the direction of the basal turn, which is not ideal for round-window insertions, as the cochlear hook's curvature is in the opposite direction. Lateral-wall electrode arrays can be modified to include magnets at their tips, augmenti

SUBMITTER: Leon L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5763516 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature