Effect of Cochlear Implant Electrode Design on Electrode Impedances and Stimulating Charge (Maximum Comfortable Level)
Year: 2022
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: design of cochlear implant electrode arrays plays an important role in the success of the cochlear implant procedure.The objectives of this study are to assess the evolution of electrode impedance and charge of maximum comfortable level and compare those parameters within and between recipients divided into two groups, the first group included 14 recipients (18 ears) who underwent cochlear implant surgery with FLEX24 electrode (MEDEL FLEX24 electrode array) that carry 12 electrode channels to distribute electric stimulation throw 19 intracochlear electrode contacts, whereas the second group included 12 recipients (18 ears) who underwent cochlear implant surgery with FORM24 electrode (MEDEL FORM24 electrode array) that carry 12 electrode channels to distribute electric stimulation throw 24 intracochlear electrode contacts.The Methods used in this retrospective study were applied to the two groups.The electrode impedance values and MCL (maximum comfortable level) were obtained at three-time points, at six months, 12 months, and 24 months after the cochlear implant surgery. Results:The average electrode impedances were 5.82, 5.61, and 5.34 KΩ, respectively for the first group and 5.44, 5.35, and 5.21 KΩ, respectively for the second group.Thus, the electrode impedance and MCL differences were non statistically significant in both groups.However, the average impedance of the first five electrode channels was a little bit higher in the first group, this can refer to the different design in those five electrode channels compared to other electrode channels.Conclusion: The average differences of electrode impedances and MCL were non-significant in both groups.However, the electrode design and the maneuvers done during CI surgery can affect the electrode impedance.
Source: Global Journal of Otolaryngology
Author: Ahmed Hafez Aboubakr
Language: English
Subfield: Speech and Hearing
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4312909291