The effect of scala tympani morphology on basilar membrane contact with a straight electrode array: A human temporal bone study

Abstract

Hypothesis: Scala tympani morphology influences the insertion dynamics and intra-scalar position of straight electrode arrays. Background: Hearing preservation is the goal of cochlear implantation with current thin straight electrode arrays. These hug the lateral wall, facilitating full, atraumatic insertions. However, most studies still report some postoperative hearing loss. This study explores the influence of scala tympani morphology on array position relative to the basilar membrane and its possible contribution to postoperative hearing loss. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six fresh-frozen human temporal bones implanted with a straight electrode array were three-dimensionally reconstruct..