Scalar Translocation Comparison Between Lateral Wall and Perimodiolar Cochlear Implant Arrays - A Meta-Analysis

Two types of electrode arrays for cochlear implants (CIs) are distinguished: lateral wall and perimodiolar. Scalar translocation of the array can lead to intracochlear trauma by penetrating from the scala tympani into the scala vestibuli or scala media, potentially negatively affecting hearing performance of CI users. This systematic review compares the lateral wall and perimodiolar arrays with respect to scalar translocation.

Systematic review.

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were reviewed for studies published within the last 11 years. No other limitations were set. All studies with original data that evaluated the occurrence of scalar translocation or tip fold-over (TF) with postoperative computed tomography (CT) following primary cochlear implantation in bilateral sensorineuronal hearing loss patients were considered to be eligible. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers.

We included 33 studies, of which none were randomized controlled trials. Meta-analysis of five cohort studies comparing scalar translocation between lateral wall and perimodiolar arrays showed that lateral wall arrays have significantly lower translocation rates (7% vs. 43%; pooled odds ratio = 0.12). Translocation was negatively associated with speech perception scores (weighted mean 41% vs. 55%). Tip fold-over of the array was more frequent with perimodiolar arrays (X²  = 6.8, P < .01).

Scalar translocation and tip fold-overs occurred more frequently with perimodiolar arrays than with lateral wall arrays. In addition, translocation of the array negatively affects hearing with the cochlear implant. Therefore, if one aims to minimize clinically relevant intracochlear trauma, lateral wall arrays would be the preferred option for cochlear implantation. Laryngoscope, 131:1358-1368, 2021.