A Case Series Suggests Peaking Transimpedance as a Possible Marker for Scalar Dislocations in Cochlear Implantation

Anna C Kopsch ¹, Luise Wagner ¹, Stefan K Plontke ¹

⁰Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, University Medicine Halle, Halle, Germany.

Audiology & Neuro-Otology +

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October 27, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Extraordinary peaks in transimpedance measurements may indicate scalar dislocation in cochlear implant (CI) patients. This finding suggests transimpedance could serve as an early marker for electrode array malpositioning.

Area Of Science

Otolaryngology
Biomedical Engineering
Neurosurgery

Background

Postoperative implant control revealed unusual transimpedance measurement peaks.
These peaks were hypothesized to correlate with scalar dislocations of the electrode array.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the correlation between transimpedance measurement anomalies and the scalar position of cochlear implant electrode arrays.

Main Methods

Retrospective analysis of six adult cochlear implant patients.
Inclusion of intra- and postoperative transimpedance measurements and radiological imaging.
Visual inspection of transimpedance data and radiological identification of electrode position.

Main Results

Five out of six patients with peak transimpedance anomalies showed incorrect scalar localization.
One patient with correct scalar localization in the scala tympani was also identified.
Transimpedance matrices with off-diagonal peaks were associated with malpositioned electrode arrays.

Conclusions

A peaking transimpedance measurement may serve as a potential indicator of scalar dislocation in cochlear implants.
This finding could aid in the early detection of electrode array malpositioning.

Keywords:

Cochlear implants Peaking transimpedances Scalar dislocations