Neural response imaging (NRI) cochlear mapping: prospects for clinical application

The objective of the study was to investigate the potential for clinical application of neural response imaging (NRI) cochlear mapping. Cochlear mapping was performed at each fitting session up to at least six months following initial fitting. Stimulation was delivered to one electrode site. NRI was recorded from each of the remaining sites. The procedure was repeated for apical, medial and basal stimulation sites, stimulating at subjective threshold and most comfortable levels. Responses were obtained in five out of six subjects and are discussed in terms of: reproducibility, quality, changes over time. Cochlear mapping provided repeatable data that gave interesting insights into the implanted cochlea. Further work is required to determine whether this approach could contribute to programme optimisation.