As an experienced cochlear implant surgeon for more than 30 years, I’ve had the opportunity to take part in many clinical trials of new devices, development of novel surgical techniques and innovations in intraoperative monitoring modalities. Our center enjoys referral of a large volume of cochlear implant candidates, many of whom enjoy excellent performance with their devices. However, there remains considerable variability on outcomes and currently no specific measures can adequately predict post-implantation performance. The current project, “Predicting Performance in Adult Cochlear Implantation” using transtympanic ECoG, cognitive testing and CT scan, is particularly exciting as the basis of a novel approach to predicting performance and, ultimately, using these measures to try to improve CI performance. Our cochlear implant program and collaborative biomedical engineering group have extensive experience in the technical/engineering aspects of measuring near field evoked potentials, conducting cognitive tests prior to CI, and imaging analysis using CT. As well, the team is experienced in conducting NIH funded basic, clinical and tech transfer studies.
My role will include surgical implantation of cochlear implant devices, supervising preoperative transtympanic ECOG measurements (including placement of transtympanic electrode), review/interpretation of postoperative CT scans. I will follow patients to observe for any unexpected symptoms related to the intervention and take part in the postoperative surveillance for healing, recovery, assessment of any complications, subjective hearing and measured auditory responses. As a senior otologic surgeon with an engineering background, I will provide feedback and suggestions for the current techniques, devices and protocols. In my capacity as chairman of the department, I will ensure that the investigators and staff engaged in our site’s participation in the study have adequate resources to successfully conduct the funded study. I also will observe for objectivity and help to manage any perceived conflicts of interests.
