Increase in cochlear implant electrode impedances with the use of electrical stimulation. (30th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saoji, Aniket A.; Adkins, Weston J.; Olund, Amy P.; Graham, Madison; Patel, Neil S.; Neff, Brian A.; Carlson, Matthew L.; Driscoll, Colin L. W.
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 59:Number 11(2020)
• Page Start: 881
• Page End: 888
• Publication Date: 2020-10-30
• Subjects: Electrode impedances -- cochlear implants -- rising pattern; Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1799251
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: Electrode impedances play a critical role in cochlear implant programming. It has been previously shown that impedances rise during periods of non-use, such as the post-operative recovery period. Then when the device is activated and use is initiated, impedances fall and are typically stable. In this study, we report a new pattern where electrode impedances increase with device use and decrease with device rest. Design: Electrode impedances were measured three to four times every day over a span of 1–3 months for two cochlear implant patients. Study sample: Two patients with a Nucleus cochlear implant participated in this study. Results: Both subjects in this study show wide fluctuations in electrode impedances. By taking serial electrode impedance measurements throughout a day of use, we observe that electrode impedances consistently increase with device use and decrease with device rest. Conclusion: In this study, we report two cases of electrode impedances increasing as a function of device use. Numerous management strategies were employed to reduce this effect but none prevailed; a clear pathophysiologic mechanism remains elusive. Further study into the cause of this electrode impedance pattern is warranted to establish a management strategy for these cochlear implant users.