Electric-acoustic stimulation with longer electrodes for potential deterioration in low-frequency hearing

Abstract

Background: Electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) has emerged as a standard treatment for patients with high-frequency hearing loss. EAS is usually performed with shorter electrodes of 16–24 mm in length. As most EAS recipients gradually lose residual acoustic hearing in the implanted ear over time, EAS with longer electrodes without causing significant intra-cochlear damage might be ideal. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate hearing preservation (HP) results after EAS surgery with longer electrodes. Methods: Ten patients (11 ears) with partial deafness that met the indications for EAS with a MED-EL FLEX28 electrode were included in this study. Auditory thresholds before and at 6 months after activation were examined. Results: In 100% of cases, HP was comfortably achieved, indicating that all patients could utilize acoustic amplification combined with electric stimulation. Conclusion: EAS with longer electrodes can offer broader cochlear coverage, resulting in natural frequency matching in comparison with shorter electrodes, even in EAS cases. The combination of advanced surgical techniques and flexible, long, straight electrodes permits deep insertion that reaches the apical region with little or no insertion trauma.