When it comes to choosing a cochlear implant electrode array, atraumaticity should always be a priority. Even for a candidate with no residual hearing, intact cochlear structures are an important factor in hearing performance. Earlier, we looked at how damage to the cochlea during insertion can significantly affect hearing outcomes. Electrode array deviation into the
Image courtesy of SPIE Publications & Kalwani et al. (2013). In part one of this series on electrode array deviation, we looked at how cochlear structures can be damaged when an electrode deviates from the scala tympani into the scala vestibuli.1 This can have a substantial effect on patient outcome, including complete loss of residual
Image courtesy of Dr. Bechara Kachar, NIDCD, NIH The scala tympani is the optimal location for a cochlear implant array.1 In the scala tympani, the array rests below the basilar membrane and stimulates neural tissues in the immediate turn, including spiral ganglion cells, neurites, and axons.2 This enables accurate tonotopic mapping as described by the Greenwood function.
