Understanding how cochlear implants affect hearing mechanics
Official title: Changes in apical cochlear mechanics after cochlear implantation
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11085943 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting a cochlear implant affects the tiny structures in the ear that help with hearing, especially for low sounds, to help improve the implants for people who still have some natural hearing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | June 9, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,103 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC020794-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085943 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are considering cochlear implantation or have recently undergone the procedure and have some remaining natural hearing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have profound hearing loss and are not candidates for cochlear implants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanical changes in the cochlea after cochlear implantation, focusing on how these changes may impact low-frequency hearing. By using advanced imaging techniques and rodent models, the study aims to measure the effects of cochlear scarring caused by the implantation process. The goal is to understand the relationship between cochlear mechanics and hearing loss in patients who receive cochlear implants, particularly those who retain some natural hearing. This could lead to improved cochlear implant designs and better outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced cochlear implant technology that minimizes hearing loss and improves speech recognition for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cochlear mechanics and the effects of cochlear implants, but this specific approach using advanced imaging techniques is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burwood, George William Strathdee — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Burwood, George William Strathdee
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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.