Intracochlear force measurements during electrode insertion: Recommendation for evaluation, comparability and presentation

Objective Intracochlear pressure and force are assumed to be important factors during cochlea implant electrode insertion. Residual hearing preservation surgery is aiming to minimize the occurrence of both factors. While for the occurrence of intracochlear pressure max. value and the peak frequency are important parameter, intracochlear force is commonly less detailed described. Partial insertional estimation of force can make the impression of a low force value although the insertion is not completed and the max. force described. The aim of this study was to compare force measurement parameter e.g. speed and insertion depth in terms of relevance for hearing preservation.

Methods We performed intracochlear force measurements on a 3 axis force measurement set up with a AB1J electrode with 0,25 mm/sec and 1,2 mm/sec insertional speeds, 16 mm and 21 mm insertional depth and evaluated max. force and angular speed.

Results While max. force is independent from the insertional speed of electrode insertion, insertional depth and the speed of insertion significantly affect angular speed.

Conclusion For the comparison of different electrodes and their effect on insertional force, max. insertional force, insertional depth and angular speed needs to be described.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023