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I noticed two key studies by Cochlear, “the drug-eluting electrode trials”

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Interesting! I found this: Outcomes following cochlear implantation with eluting electrodes: A systematic review - PMC3
My take is that the electrodes slowly release some sort of antiinflammatory substance. This would reduce scarring. It looks like (Note: just my interpretation) that the purpose of this is to help maintain residual hearing and to reduce electrical impedance. I’m thinking reducing impedance might make for less use of electricity and allow for smaller and/or longer lasting batteries.

I’ve heard of two trials at Cochlear over the last couple of years that might be related. The first involved administering BDNF (brain-derived neuro-factors?) at implantation, the second a drug developed by Sensorion- a French company I think. Maximising residual hearing was the goal of both. I just skimmed the linked articles very quickly and we’re probably talking about completely different things, but it’s late and I’ve got kids to get off to school in the morning…

In reply to @MDB

@MDB said:

This would reduce scarring. It looks like (Note: just my interpretation) that the purpose of this is to help maintain residual hearing and to reduce electrical impedance.

You’re right. There are cases with existing users who have unexplained increases in impedance, which resolved after a short course of oral glucocorticosteroids.

In reply to @MDB

Yes this makes perfect sense to me. Especially for those recipients who have to undergo reimplementations, for whatever reason. The fear here from the recipients point of view will the surgeon have trouble getting the new electrode array into correct position due to scar tissue that has formed from the first implant. Using this eluting electrode will hopefully prevent scar tissue forming. Therefore making any further implantations easier. God forbid should any recipients need reimplementation, sadly failures do happen.

Hah! I know how to use Google enough to be dangerous! :rofl:

In reply to @MDB

Yes, yes, I searched Google and found that the principle is to reduce anti-inflammatory resistance. At present, it seems to be a good direction, but the risks are high. Everyone’s physical condition is different.Thank you for your answer.bro

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