Investigating cochlear implant strategies for better musical perception

Study of Musical Perception and Post-operative Auditory Performance as a Function of the Depth of Stimulation in Subjects Implanted With a MED-EL Cochlear Implant and Using a FineHearing Strategy Single-center Randomized Cross-over Study

Not applicable Interventional MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geräte GesmbH · NCT04591093

This study is testing a new way to use cochlear implants to see if it helps people with hearing loss enjoy music better by changing how the device stimulates different parts of the ear.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment32 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMED-EL Elektromedizinische Geräte GesmbH Industry-sponsored
Locations1 site (Paris)
Trial IDNCT04591093 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the FineHearing strategy in cochlear implants for patients with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. It compares the auditory performance of patients using different stimulation depths, specifically focusing on the impact of activating apical versus basal electrodes. The study will assess musical perception, vocal audiometric results, and qualitative sound perception. By utilizing a variable stimulation rate, the research seeks to improve the coding of frequency information in cochlear implants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adult French-speaking patients with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss who meet the criteria for cochlear implantation.

Not a fit: Patients with retro-cochlear pathologies such as auditory neuropathy or vestibular schwannoma may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance musical perception and overall auditory experiences for cochlear implant users.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patient (≥ 18 years old) speaking French
* Patient who fulfils the criteria for cochlear implantation
* Patient with a postoperative insertion angle of the apical electrode \> 450°
* Patient with 12 active electrodes on the day of activation.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Retro-cochlear pathology: auditory neuropathy, vestibular schwannoma

Where this trial is running

Paris

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Bilateralcochlear implantstimulation strategysound coding strategy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.