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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
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Robotic Cochlear Implantation for Direct Cochlear Access
Published on: June 16, 2022
Poznań's program of cochlear and brainstem implantation: a general review
W Szyfter1, A Pruszewicz, M Karlik
1Department of Otolaryngology, Karol Marcinkowski University School of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.
Summary
Cochlear implantation in Poznań involved 151 patients, including children and adults, using various Nucleus devices. Post-implantation, measurements and rehabilitation programs showed positive outcomes, enabling some children to mainstream into regular schools.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Audiology
Background:
- The cochlear implantation program in Poznań commenced in January 1994.
- Over eight years, 151 patients (111 children, 40 adults) received cochlear implants (149) or auditory brain-stem implants (2).
- The program expanded eligibility to younger children (youngest 18 months) and included multi-handicapped individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the outcomes of a comprehensive cochlear implantation program.
- To detail the surgical techniques, device types, and patient demographics.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation strategies and patient progress.
Main Methods:
- Surgical implantation of various Nucleus devices (22, 24 M, 24 K, 24 Contour, 24 Double Array, 24 ABI).
- Intraoperative measurements including impedance telemetry, electrically evoked stapedius reflex, and Neural Response Telemetry (NRT).
- Post-operative X-rays (cochleogram), NRT threshold measurements, and tailored rehabilitation programs (individual sessions, continuous, or camps).
Main Results:
- Electrode insertion lengths ranged from 12.75-24.0 mm (mean 22.05 mm) with rotation from 180-540 degrees (mean 292.82 degrees).
- Neural Response Telemetry (NRT) thresholds averaged 51.4% of the dynamic range.
- Rehabilitation facilitated significant progress, enabling some children to transition from hearing-impaired to mainstream schooling.
Conclusions:
- The Poznań cochlear implantation program successfully integrated diverse Nucleus devices and surgical approaches.
- Post-operative assessments and tailored rehabilitation programs are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
- The program demonstrated the potential for significant auditory and speech improvements, including mainstream educational integration for pediatric recipients.
