A simple tool to automate the insertion process in cochlear implant surgery

• DOI: 10.1007/s11548-020-02243-7
• Publication Date: 2020-08-28T06:02:22Z
• Authors: Thomas S. Rau; M. Geraldine Zuniga; Rolf Salcher; Thomas Lenarz
• Keywords: Microsurgery; Hydraulic actuation; Reproducibility of Results; Insertion tool; Surgical Instruments; Cochlear Implantation; Humans [MeSH] ; Cochlear implant ; Cochlea/surgery [MeSH] ; Microsurgery/instrumentation [MeSH] ; Hydraulic actuation ; Microsurgery/methods [MeSH] ; Original Article ; Surgical Instruments [MeSH] ; Cochlear Implantation/methods [MeSH] ; Automated insertion ; Reproducibility of Results [MeSH] ; Cochlear Implants [MeSH] ; Cadaver [MeSH] ; Insertion tool ; Cochlear Implantation/instrumentation [MeSH]; Cochlea; 03 medical and health sciences; Cochlear Implants; 0302 clinical medicine; Cadaver; Humans; Original Article; Cochlear implant; Automated insertion

Abstract Purpose Automated insertion of electrode arrays (EA) in cochlear implant surgery is presumed to be less traumatic than manual insertions, but no tool widely available the operating room. We sought (1) design and create a simple able automate EA process; (2) perform preliminary evaluations designed prototype. Methods A first prototype with maximum simplicity was fabricated take advantage hydraulic actuation. The facilitates automated forward motion using syringe connected an infusion pump. Initial evaluation included: testing at different velocities trials into artificial model force recordings, (3) device handling, fixation positioning cadaver head specimens surgical retractor. Alignment explored CT imaging. Results In this initial phase, demonstrated easy assembly ability respond actuation driven by pump velocities. insertions ultra-slow velocity 0.03 mm/s revealed smooth profiles mean 0.060 N ± 0.007 N. Device appropriate axis cochlea deemed feasible achieve. Conclusions our did not reveal any serious complications that contradict initially defined specifications. Further meticulous needed determine safety device, its reliability clinical applicability.