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Electrode Migration in Patients with Perimodiolar Cochlear Implant Electrodes
Philipp Mittmann1, Grit Rademacher, Sven Mutze
1Department of Otolaryngology, Unfallkrankenhaus, Berlin, Germany.
Audiology & Neuro-Otology
|September 5, 2015
Summary
Cochlear implant electrode array migration is rare. In this study, perimodiolar electrodes showed less migration than lateral wall types, and all cases were asymptomatic.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electrode array migration is an uncommon complication following cochlear implantation.
- Previously, migration was primarily documented with lateral wall electrode arrays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and extent of electrode array migration in perimodiolar cochlear implant electrodes.
- To compare migration rates between perimodiolar and lateral wall electrode arrays.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 27 patients receiving bilateral perimodiolar electrode arrays between 1999 and 2014.
- Measurement of electrode insertion depth angles from initial and follow-up postoperative scans.
- Comparison of insertion angles to identify and quantify array migration (>15°).
Main Results:
- Seven out of 27 patients (25.93%) exhibited electrode array migration exceeding 15°.
- Perimodiolar electrode arrays demonstrated less frequent and less extensive migration compared to lateral wall electrodes.
- All observed electrode migrations were clinically asymptomatic.
Conclusions:
- Electrode array migration in perimodiolar cochlear implants appears to be less common and less severe than in lateral wall electrodes.
- Despite measurable migration, perimodiolar electrode array displacement did not result in clinical symptoms.
- Further research may clarify the long-term implications and management of electrode migration.
