A simple tool to automate the insertion process in cochlear implant surgery.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Robotics
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Manual electrode array (EA) insertion in cochlear implant surgery can be traumatic.
• A need exists for automated tools to improve surgical outcomes and reduce trauma.
• Current surgical tools lack widespread availability for automated EA insertion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a simple, hydraulically actuated tool for automated EA insertion.
• To conduct preliminary evaluations of the prototype's performance and handling.

Main Methods:

• Designed and built a hydraulically actuated insertion tool using a syringe and infusion pump.
• Evaluated forward motion at various velocities and EA insertion forces in an artificial cochlear model.
• Assessed device handling, fixation, and positioning on cadaver specimens, with CT imaging for alignment.

Main Results:

• The prototype showed easy assembly and responsiveness to hydraulic actuation.
• Ultra-slow EA insertion (0.03 mm/s) resulted in smooth force profiles (0.060 N ± 0.007 N).
• Feasible and easy device positioning with appropriate cochlear insertion axis was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The hydraulic insertion tool met initial design specifications without apparent complications.
• Further rigorous testing is required to establish the device's safety, reliability, and clinical utility.
• This tool shows promise for improving cochlear implant surgery procedures.