Noise Exposure on Human Cochlea During Cochleostomy Formation Using Conventional and a Hand Guided Robotic Drill

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the disturbance induced in the cochlea during cochleostomy using conventional drill and a hand guided robotic drill. Study Design:The study is based on experimental measurements using the Laser Doppler Vibrometer during the drilling processes converted to Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) for comparison. Setting:The study is based on experimental results of three sets of cochleostomies on human cadaver heads.Main Outcome Measure(s): Robotic drilling, in comparison to the conventional drilling method, creates a consistently lower level of disturbance in cochlea across the hearing frequency range.Results: Robotic drilling, in comparison to the conventional drilling method, creates a consistently lower level of disturbance in cochlea across the hearing frequency range. Conclusions:It is reasonable to conclude that robotic drilling has a lower possibility of creating acoustic trauma in cochlea that endangers the residual hearing of patients.

Quantitative Analysis of Temporal Bone Density and Thickness for Robotic Ear Surgery

“…Fiducial screws placed inferiorly on the temporal bone often coincide with mastoid air cells causing reduced mechanical stability. Moreover, bone density is an important factor considered to minimize heat ( 16 ) and acoustic noise exposure during bone removal and drilling ( 17 , 18 ). Firm screw placement is also desired for the immobilization of bone conduction, middle ear, or cochlear implant bodies, in particular in pediatric cases ( 19 ).…”