Four-year results with the biohybrid cochlear electrodes: Safe electrode?

Introduction A few years ago was the Implantation with so-called biohybrid electrodes introduced in our clinic. These electrodes coated with autologous mononuclear, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective factors producing cells should reduce the insertion trauma and maintain the vitality of the still vital nerve cells of the spiral ganglion. The clinical feasibility of this approach has already been demonstrated. In the present retrospective study are compared the four-year results of the two sides (classical electrode and biohybrid electrode) in the bilaterally implanted patients in order to investigate the possible adverse long-term effects.

Methods All patients received a complete audiological diagnosis which also included a speech audiogram and an impedance measurement. The measurements were carried out 1,3,6,12,24 and 48 months after implantation. The hearing result was assessed in the speech audiogram.

Result All patients showed satisfactory speech understanding and similar impedances on both sides although they had a long-term deafness before implantation. The results of the speech understanding and the impedance measurement were stable for years. Complications were not registered in any patient.

Conclusion Due to the similar results of the biohybrid electrode with a classical electrode, it is considered to be a safe option in the cochlear implant restoration. The simplicity of development and introduction of this electrode with application of autologous cells as a source of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective factors is the key step for cell-based, regenerative therapies for deafness.

Poster-PDF A-1690.pdf

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021