Improving Cochlear Implant Surgery with Real-Time Guidance
Reducing structural damage and adverse surgical events during cochlear implantation using an intraoperative sensing system
This project is developing a new sensing system to help surgeons place cochlear implants more safely and effectively, aiming to protect patients' remaining hearing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Advanced Optronics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11254587 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When a surgeon inserts a cochlear implant, they currently rely on their feel and experience to guide the delicate electrode into the inner ear. This can sometimes lead to damage to the ear's structures, which might affect a patient's hearing and speech understanding after surgery. Our team is creating a 'Sixth Sense' Surgical Guidance System that uses a special sensor-enabled implant electrode. This system will give surgeons immediate, precise information about the electrode's path and the pressure it applies, allowing them to make tiny adjustments during the procedure. The goal is to reduce damage and improve the overall success of cochlear implant operations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals considering or undergoing cochlear implant surgery who wish to minimize surgical risks and maximize hearing outcomes.
Not a fit: Patients who have already received a cochlear implant or those not eligible for one would not directly benefit from this specific surgical guidance system.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could significantly reduce the risk of structural damage during cochlear implant surgery, helping more patients preserve their natural hearing and achieve better speech understanding.
How similar studies have performed: While real-time surgical guidance is an emerging field, the concept of using quantitative data to improve surgical precision has shown promise in other medical areas, making this a novel application for cochlear implantation.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- Advanced Optronics, INC. — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reddy, Jay W — Advanced Optronics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Reddy, Jay W
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.