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Author Spotlight: Optimizing EAS with Long Electrodes for Enhanced Cochlear Coverage and Hearing Preservation
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Initial hearing preservation outcomes of cochlear implantation with a slim perimodiolar electrode array
Erika Woodson1, Rebecca Chota Nelson1, Molly Smeal1
1Cleveland Clinic Head and Neck Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA.
Cochlear Implants International
|January 14, 2021
Summary
The slim modiolar array shows moderate success in preserving hearing immediately after cochlear implantation. Over half of candidates maintained low-frequency hearing, with better results for those with pre-existing better hearing.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cochlear implantation (CI) aims to restore hearing in individuals with severe to profound hearing loss.
- Hearing preservation (HP) is a critical factor in CI, particularly for maintaining residual low-frequency hearing.
- The slim modiolar array is a newer electrode designed for CI, with its efficacy in HP needing assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the slim modiolar array in preserving hearing in cochlear implant recipients.
- To identify factors influencing successful hearing preservation with this electrode.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted on adult CI recipients implanted with the slim modiolar array.
- Candidates for hearing preservation (HP) were identified based on pre-operative low-frequency pure tone average (LFPTA) thresholds (<80 dB).
- Post-operative audiograms were analyzed to assess hearing threshold changes and retention of LFPTA.
Main Results:
- Of 42 HP candidates, 56.4% retained LFPTA below 80 dB.
- The mean change in LFPTA was 24.15 dB, with 56.4% experiencing a change less than 20 dB.
- Hearing preservation was more successful in lower frequencies, with 78% of those with LFPTA <50 dB retaining serviceable hearing.
Conclusions:
- The slim modiolar array demonstrates moderate effectiveness for immediate hearing preservation.
- Hearing preservation outcomes with this array are comparable to those seen in previous electroacoustic stimulation (EAS) trials for similar patient profiles.
