Influence of internal factors on experimental intracochlear pressure measurement

Introduction Intracochlear pressure changes have been assumed to play a central role in hearing preservation during cochlear implantation. The evaluation of pressure in different settings have been evaluated (temporal bones, cochlea models) and were found to have their advantages and disadvantages. Experimentally problems have been discussed to influence the results substantially.

Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of intracochlear air on the measurements in a cochlea model by fiber optic pressure sensors.

Material and methods: The experiments were performed in an uncurled cochlear model that contained a volume value equivalent to a full cochlea. A microfiber pressure sensor was attached at the tip of the electrode array and inserted under the presence and absence of air. Since the cochlear model is transparent, a direct visualization of air under the microscope was possible when performing the insertions.

Results The intracochlear pressure measurement results were directly affected when air was visualized inside the cochlear model while inserting the electrode.

Conclusion and significance: The results obtained in a cochlear model show the importance of a direct evaluation of air inside the setting. The exclusion of intracochlear air should be an important factor for the choice of model for measurement (temporal bone vs. cochlea model).

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Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020