Is magnet-induced noise of cochlear implants (CI) with a rotatable magnet detected by patients?

Introduction A new magnet design of the cochlear implants (CI) allows rotation in the magnetic field and lead to increased MRI compatibility. The rotation of the magnet can cause noise when the implant is shaked. The aim of this study was to investigate if the movement-induced noise is noticed by patients using the example of the new series of Cochlear.

Methods Since May 2019, 38 patients and 41 ears respectively have been treated with the new series of Cochlear in our clinic. This study included adult patients with ipsilateral and /or contralateral residual hearing who were implanted for at least 3 months. The patient was instructed to shake his head without wearing the sound processor. Physician and patient were interviewed for registered noise.

Results 9 patients and 10 ears respectively (one patient was treated on both sides in one-step) were included in the study. The examination took place on average 4 months after implantation. 2 patients had normacusis or low grade hearing loss on the contralateral side, while the remaining 6 patients had moderate to severe hearing loss contralateral. 3 cases presented ipsilateral a residual hearing in the low frequencies. In all cases, neither the patient nor the examiner noticed a shaking-induced noise.

Conclusion In a first study group it has been shown that, neither patients nor the examiner could notice the preoperative objectified magnet-induced noise. Irritating noise caused by an MRI-compatible can thus be largely excluded.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
10. Juni 2020