Abstract
The authors report on an actuated positioning device for a cochlear prosthesis insertion procedure. The device consists of multiple high-aspect ratio fluidic actuator chambers integrated with a high-density silicon cochlear electrode array and manufactured in a tapered-helix form. Actuation chambers with cross-sectional sizes as small as 40 × 200 μm and lengths of 30 mm have been fabricated using flexible polymers. The device will allow for low-resistance basilar insertion of a stimulating electrode array into the cochlea providing for deep, perimodiolar position considered most beneficial for auditory nerve stimulation, while minimizing intracochlear trauma. Experimental measurements, FEA analysis, and modeling demonstrate a viable and appropriate actuation method for a cochlear implant procedure.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution.
We’re sorry, something doesn't seem to be working properly.
Please try refreshing the page. If that doesn't work, please contact support so we can address the problem.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Additional information
This work is supported in part by the Engineering Research Centers Program of the National Science Foundation under Award Number EEC-9986866. The authors would also like to thank Dymax for the UV cure adhesive samples they provided.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Arcand, B., Bhatti, P., Butala, N. et al. Active positioning device for a perimodiolar cochlear electrode array. Microsystem Technologies 10, 478–483 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-004-0376-5
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-004-0376-5
Keywords
- Nerve Stimulation
- Auditory Nerve
- Electrode Array
- Stimulate Electrode
- Flexible Polymer