Electrode to modiolus proximity: a fluoroscopic and histologic analysis.
OBJECTIVE
This study was conducted to evaluate the electrode to modiolus proximity of two commonly used electrodes (Nucleus and Clarion) and a new prototype electrode.


BACKGROUND
Theoretical advantages of modiolus-hugging cochlear implant electrodes include reduced stimulus energy requirements, more efficient power management and longer battery life, more discreet ganglion cell population stimulation, and reduced facial nerve stimulation.


METHODS
Fluoroscopic analysis and histologic surface preparation analysis of electrode position and trauma.


RESULTS
The Nucleus straight electrode occupied an outer wall position in the scala tympani. The Clarion electrode occupied a more intermediate position. The actively coiling prototype electrode was modiolus hugging but caused more trauma than the other two electrodes tested.


CONCLUSIONS
The optimal modiolus-hugging atraumatic intracochlear electrode does not currently exist.
Roland
J T
JT
Department of Otolaryngology, New York University School of Medicine, New York 10016, USA.
Fishman
A J
AJ
Alexiades
G
G
Cohen
N L
NL
D019929:Cochlear Implantation; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D046508:Culture Techniques; D004558:Electric Stimulation / Q000295:instrumentation; D004567:Electrodes, Implanted; D004867:Equipment Design; D005471:Fluoroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control