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Updated: May 8, 2026
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Robotic Cochlear Implantation for Direct Cochlear Access
Published on: June 16, 2022
Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Robot-Assisted Cochlear Implant Electrode Array Insertion
Keshinisuthan Kirubalingam1, Lauren Siegel1, Kim Zimmerman2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
Summary
Robot-assisted cochlear implantation (CI) using the OTODRIVE® system demonstrated safety and precision in a recent study. This robotic approach showed significant improvements in hearing outcomes and accurate electrode placement, supporting its clinical integration.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Robotics
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Robotic-assisted cochlear implantation (CI) offers potential benefits like reduced surgical variability and enhanced precision.
- Real-world clinical evidence for robotic CI is currently limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety, accuracy, and early hearing outcomes of robot-assisted CI electrode array insertion.
- To assess the performance of the OTODRIVE® robotic system in a clinical setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study involving adult patients undergoing robot-assisted CI.
- Utilized the OTODRIVE® system with OTOPLAN software for preoperative planning and electrode insertion.
- Assessed intraoperative safety, audiologic performance (PTA, AzBio scores), and imaging-based insertion accuracy (AID).
Main Results:
- No intraoperative complications or robotic-related adverse events were reported in 39 patients.
- Significant improvements in hearing were observed: mean PTA improved from 92.4 dB HL to 31.6 dB HL.
- Mean AzBio scores increased by 57.6%, and 89.7% of cases achieved full electrode insertion without malposition.
Conclusions:
- Robot-assisted CI with the OTODRIVE® system was safely integrated into clinical practice.
- The system demonstrated reproducible electrode insertion and positive early postoperative audiologic outcomes.
- Findings support the feasibility and safety of incorporating robotic systems into routine cochlear implant surgery.