Titanium implants in the otic capsule: development of a new multichannel extracochlear implant

Preliminary data are presented on the development of a new approach for multi-channel stimulation of the cochlea. The approach is based upon the use of small titanium implants in the lateral wall of the inner ear which act as anchor points for platinum-iridium stimulating electrodes. These holders allow contact of the stimulating electrode with the lateral surface of the membranous labyrinth. Observations in monkeys indicate that some degree of anchoring of the titanium implant in the otic capsule is achievable, including the formation of a close bone-metal interface. We propose that this approach may yield an alternative strategy for the development of a multichannel extracochlear prosthesis.