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Measuring the electrical stapedius reflex with stapedius muscle electromyogram recordings
Ryan S Clement1, Paul M Carter, Daryl R Kipke
1Department of Bioengineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA.
Annals of Biomedical Engineering
|April 19, 2002
Summary
This study explored using electromyography (EMG) to measure the electrical stapedius reflex (ESR) in cochlear implant recipients. EMG offers a promising method to estimate ESR, aiding in setting stimulation levels for improved hearing.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Audiology
Background:
- Cochlear implant comfort levels correlate with electrical stapedius reflex (ESR) thresholds.
- Acoustic impedance methods for ESR detection are often limited by undetectable impedance changes in recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the utility of stapedial electromyogram (EMG) for estimating the onset and strength of the ESR.
- To assess EMG as a potential tool for guiding cochlear implant stimulation parameters.
Main Methods:
- Ketamine-anesthetized guinea pigs were implanted with Nucleus electrode arrays.
- Biphasic current pulse trains were used for stimulation via a Cochlear Corporation CI24M stimulator.
- EMG recordings were obtained using bipolar microwire electrodes.
Main Results:
- EMG recordings showed easily detectable unit potentials.
- Growth response curves were monotonic with significant dynamic ranges.
- The stimulus protocol effectively produced independent ESR responses.
Conclusions:
- Stapedial EMG is a viable method for characterizing the electrical stapedius reflex.
- EMG may assist in setting the upper limit of the dynamic range for human cochlear implant recipients.