Individual Optimization of the Insertion of a Preformed Cochlear Implant Electrode Array

Figure 3

(a) Visualization of the curling behaviour of a preformed Contour Advance electrode array (RE06) using the 22 detected platinum contacts and the location of the Softip. The start configuration (on the left side) with stylet inside is characterized by a nearly straight configuration (compared with Figure 2(a)). Due to stylet extraction, the electrode array returns into its preformed spiral shape (right). By tracking the complete range of curling behaviour, the movement of the tip of the implant shows a typically sigmoidal curve. This curve is indicated using a bold blue line and is referred to as the curling profile of the electrode array (here RE06). Scale marks indicate 1 mm. (b) After determination of all curling profiles, four electrode arrays were selected and used in this study, which together cover the full range of curling behaviour investigated. RE01 and RE08 represent electrode arrays with a highly pronounced curling behaviour, measured as deflection of the tip from the straight configuration. RE06 was chosen to represent a moderate curling profile and RE07 to represent the flattest one.

(a) 2D visualization of curling behaviour

(b) Curling profiles