Robotic cochlear implants that conform to the shape of the cochlea
Official title: Robotic-Inserted, Shape-Conforming Cochlear Implant Electrode Arrays
Funded at Qualia Oto, INC. · NIH-11186545 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new kind of cochlear implant that uses a robot to help place the electrodes in a way that fits your ear better, making the surgery easier on you and helping you hear better afterward.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Qualia Oto, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $304,723 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DC022823-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11186545 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who are considering cochlear implantation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild hearing loss or those who are not candidates for cochlear implants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new type of cochlear implant that uses robotic assistance to insert electrode arrays that conform to the shape of the cochlea. The goal is to achieve a less traumatic implantation process while ensuring optimal positioning of the electrodes for better hearing outcomes. By utilizing a special material that allows the electrodes to curl gently during insertion, the procedure aims to minimize damage to the cochlea and preserve any residual hearing. This innovative approach combines advanced materials with robotic technology to improve the cochlear implantation experience.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to cochlear implants that provide better hearing outcomes with less risk of damage to the cochlea.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using robotic assistance for surgical procedures, but this specific approach with shape-conforming electrodes is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Qualia Oto, INC.
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maeng, Jimin — Qualia Oto, INC.
- Study coordinator: Maeng, Jimin
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Shape-adaptive cochlear implant electrodes
A small team is developing flexible cochlear implant electrodes that can adapt shape during surgery to reduce trauma and improve hearing outcomes for CI patients.
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New cochlear implant technology for better hearing outcomes
This study is testing a new type of cochlear implant that can change its shape to fit better in your ear, which might help you hear better and feel more comfortable during the procedure.
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.