Intraoperative Impedance Measurements for the Evaluation of Perimodiolar Location οf Cochlear Implant Electrode - Own Experience

Evaluation of insertion of a cochlear implant electrode into the cochlea includes radiological techniques: plain X-ray of the skull, cochlear projection (based on Stenvers projection), computer tomography. These methods allow generally postoperative evaluation. During surgery the insertion of the electrode is assessed based on anatomical structures and markers placed on the electrode. The measurement of the electrode impedance is also an important tool. 60 patients implanted with the Contour cochlear implant with pre-shaped electrode were examined. Age o patients: mediana 4.25 (1.5-54.5). Examination includes intraoperative impedance measurement performed in two stages: (1) after the electrode insertion, and (2) after removal of the stylet. Measurements were done in Common Ground (CG) and Monopolar 1 (MP1) stimulation modes. Measurements recorded in two modes and in 3 different parts of the cochlea (apical, middle, basal) were compared. The average difference value (before-after) was for the CG mode: 0.45 kΩ, and for the MP1 mode: 0.39 kΩ. For the CG mode the difference values were: 0.64, 0.44 and 0.28 toward apical part. For the MP1 mode the difference values were: 0.47, 0.43 and 0.27 toward apical part of the cochlea.