Round Window Stimulation of the Cochlea

Abstract

Mixed hearing loss associated with a sensorineural component and an impaired conductive mechanism for sound from the external ear canal to the cochlea represents a challenge for rehabilitation using either surgery or traditional hearing amplification. Direct stimulations of the ossicular chain and the round window (RW) membrane have allowed an improved hearing in this population. The authors review the developments in basic and clinical research that have allowed the exploration of new routes for inner ear stimulation. Similar changes occur in the electrophysiological measures in response to auditory stimulation through the traditional route and direct mechanical stimulation of the RW. The latter has proven to be very effective as a means of hearing rehabilitation in a group of patients with significant difficulties with hearing and communication.

Using Stapes Velocity to Estimate the Efficacy of Mechanical Stimulation of the Round Window With an Active Middle Ear Implant

“…AMEIs consist of an implantable mechanical stimulator, and an external or implanted speech processor and microphone. AMEIs have been used in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss or contraindication of conductive hearing loss (1–4) by providing direct mechanical stimulation to ossicular chain. Although primarily used for rehabilitation of sensorineural hearing loss, expanded indications in conductive and mixed hearing loss have been explored through cochlear stimulation via the round window (RW) (5–16)?…”