Stimulus-inadequate sensations in cochlear implant patients | JoVE Visualize

Stimulus-inadequate sensations in cochlear implant patients

¹Department of Otolaryngology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Germany.

Acta Oto-Laryngologica|September 1, 1993

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Fifty-one percent of adult cochlear implant patients reported undesirable sensations, including pain, high-frequency feelings, and non-stimulation. Radiographic findings correlated these stimulus-inadequate sensations (SIS) with electrode placement and potential damage.

Area of Science:

Otolaryngology
Neurosurgery
Medical Imaging

Background:

The NUCLEUS 22 channel cochlear implant system (CI) was implanted in 56 adult patients between 1984 and 1987.
A significant portion of these patients (51%) experienced undesirable sensations post-implantation.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the causes of stimulus-inadequate sensations (SIS) in adult cochlear implant recipients.
To correlate patient-reported sensations with radiographic findings of intracochlear electrode placement.

Main Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 56 adult patients who received the NUCLEUS 22 channel CI.
Classification of stimulus-inadequate sensations (SIS) into pain-like, high-frequency, and non-stimulation types.
Radiographic investigation using polytomography for 23 patients to visualize intracochlear electrodes.

Main Results:

SIS were classified into three types: pain-like, high-frequency, and non-stimulation.
Radiographic analysis revealed correlations between SIS and electrode positioning.
Pain-like SIS were linked to stimulation of the tympanic cavity's mucous membranes and periosteum.
High-frequency SIS were potentially caused by non-physiological stimulation of basal ganglion cells.
Non-stimulation was associated with damaged electrodes and surrounding fibrosis.

Conclusions:

Conventional tomography is effective for assessing intracochlear electrode configuration.
Understanding the causes of SIS can inform future cochlear implant design and patient management.
Radiographic evaluation is crucial for diagnosing and managing undesirable sensations after cochlear implantation.