title: The effects of insertion speed on inner ear function during cochlear implantation: a comparison study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To investigate the insertion speed and its impact on electrode insertion characteristics, hearing preservation and clinical vestibular function in a prospective cohort study with a retrospective control group at a tertiary otology/neurotology centre.
  
  
  METHODS
  Hearing-preserving cochlear implantation using systemic and topical steroids in conjunction with a round-window approach, a complete cochlear coverage electrode and two different electrode insertion speeds [60 mm/min (n = 18) vs. 15 mm/min (n = 22)] was performed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The insertion speed had a significant impact on various insertion characteristics as well as hearing preservation and vestibular function. In conclusion, a slow electrode insertion speed appears to facilitate full electrode insertion, reduce the occurrence of insertion resistance as well as promote preservation of residual hearing and vestibular function after cochlear implantation.
authors.affiliation: Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, School of Surgery, University of Western Australia, Perth, W.A., Australia. Gunesh.Rajan@health.wa.gov.au
authors.forename: Gunesh P
authors.initials: GP
authors.lastname: Rajan
authors.forename: Georgios
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Kontorinis
authors.forename: Jafri
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kuthubutheen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000379:methods*; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006309:Hearing / Q000502:physiology*; D034381:Hearing Loss / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006320:Hearing Tests; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies