Author(s)
Nidhi Jha, BA
William Liu, BS
Meghan Hiss, AuD
Doug Fitzpatrick, PhD
Oliver Adunka, MD
Affiliation(s)
Ohio State
Abstract:
Educational Objective: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants should be able to understand how electrocochleography (ECochG) can be used post operatively to assess trends within the cochlear implant population.
Objectives: Determine the proportion of subjects that retained cochlear responses and assess factors that influence response preservation.
Study Design: Prospective quantitative clinical study
Methods: Sixty-three adult cochlear implant (Cochlear Americas or Advanced Bionics) recipients were recruited. ECochG potentials were measured in clinic at a single timepoint (range: 3 weeks-17 years). Measurements were obtained using each manufacturer's proprietary equipment to deliver tone bursts at various frequencies and intensities via sound tube and foam insert earphone.
Results: Of 63 subjects, ages 30-92 years (mean: 66.1+/= 14.4), 22 (35%) had responses significantly above the noise floor including several who had been implanted years earlier. Multiple regression models showed age and months post-surgery as significant factors for obtaining an ECochG response; both were significantly negatively correlated with response magnitude. The strength of both factors increased when using response magnitude. These models showed manufacturer and electrode type (straight vs/ precurved) were not significant factors in whether a significant ECochG response was obtained.
Conclusions: A third of cochlear implant subjects had measurable responses when recorded post operatively in clinic, including some implanted years earlier. Significant negative correlations were seen with the presence and degree of residual ECochG response. Residual ECochG responses were not predictive of better post operative speech outcomes.