Electric acoustic stimulation with longer electrodes can offer a broader cochlear coverage and various type of map in case of high-frequency hearing loss. We are working on a safer approach to EAS surgery using less invasive techniques, flexible electrodes and steroid administration. This allows deeper insertion with minimal surgical trauma, preserving hearing well.
Our earlier studies showed even in EAS cases, this invasive CI surgery combined with thin, straight, and flexible longer electrode enabled the preservation of acoustic hearing. Additionally, we reported that the hearing preservation scores were independent of the length of the inserted electrode are consistent with the systematic review. As most patient gradually lose residual hearing due to the natural cause of hearing loss, in these cases, providing broader cochlear coverage using longer electrode was beneficial for better place-pitch matching.
Advanced surgical techniques and steroid administration are important to minimize surgical trauma. Additionally, we think EAS with longer electrodes was useful not only to prepare for future hearing deterioration, but also to offer a couple of types of maps, map strategies. Identification of the etiology of hearing loss using genetic analysis is essential for predicting the future audiogram.
