Models of Cochlea Used in Cochlear Implant Research: A Review

As the first clinically translated machine-neural interface, cochlear implants (CI) have demonstrated much success in providing hearing to those with severe to profound hearing loss. Despite their clinical effectiveness, key drawbacks such as hearing damage, partly from insertion forces that arise during implantation, and current spread, which limits focussing ability, prevent wider CI eligibility. In this review, we provide an overview of the anatomical and physical properties of the cochlea as a resource to aid the development of accurate models to improve future CI treatments. We highlight the advancements in the development of various physical, animal, tissue engineering, and computational models of the cochlea and the need for such models, challenges in their use, and a perspective on their future directions.

Automated summary

As the first clinically translated machine-neural interface, cochlear implants (CI) have shown success in restoring hearing for severe to profound hearing loss patients. However, challenges such as hearing damage from insertion forces during implantation and limited focusing ability due to current spread hinder wider CI eligibility. This review provides an overview of cochlear anatomy and physical properties as a resource to improve accurate models for future CI treatments. It also discusses the advancements, challenges, and future directions in the development of physical, animal, tissue engineering, and computational models of the cochlea.