Finite Element Modeling of Residual Hearing after Cochlear Implant Surgery in Chinchillas

Cochlear implant (CI) surgery is one of the most utilized treatments for severe hearing loss. However, the effects of a successful scala tympani insertion on the mechanics of hearing are not yet fully understood. This paper presents a finite element (FE) model of the chinchilla inner ear for studying the interrelationship between the mechanical function and the insertion angle of a CI electrode. This FE model includes a three-chambered cochlea and full vestibular system, accomplished using μ-MRI and μ-CT scanning technology. This model’s first application found minimal loss of residual hearing due to insertion angle after CI surgery and indicates that it is a reliable and helpful tool for future application in CI design, surgical planning, and stimuli setup.