Open AccessElectrode selection for hearing preservation in cochlear implantation: A review of the evidence
Author(s) -
Brant Jason A.,
Ruckenstein Michael J.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
world journal of otorhinolaryngology ‐ head and neck surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2589-1081
pISSN - 2095-8811
DOI - 10.1016/j.wjorl.2016.08.002
Subject(s) - cochlear implant , audiology , medicine , hearing loss , cochlear implantation , implant , population , interim , surgery , environmental health , archaeology , history
Objective To review and assess the ideal length of electrode in cochlear implant patients for hearing preservation. Methods The English language literature was reviewed for studies including hearing preservation and speech understanding for electrodes of different lengths. Results One prospective trial was found, and there were no studies that randomized patients into different length electrodes with an intent to preserve hearing. Eight studies total included multiple length electrodes and contained data regarding hearing preservation. Conclusions Although there is some evidence that indicates that shorter electrodes may improve both short and long‐term hearing preservation rates in cochlear implant patients, no study has directly compared implant length on hearing preservation in a similar patient population. A randomized trial of short and standard length electrodes for hearing preservation is warranted. In the interim, utilization of current electrodes measuring 20–25 mm could seem to be a prudent approach when seeking to preserve residual hearing without unduly compromising cochlear coverage.