ABA Cochlear Implants & Implantable Hearing Devices

Question 1

Which structure in the cochlea is the target for cochlear implant electrode array insertion?

Accepted Answer

Scala tympani

Answer

The electrode array is inserted into the scala tympani because it is more accessible via the round window or cochleostomy and is closest to the spiral ganglion neurons.

Question 2

What is the minimum unaided pure-tone average (PTA) criterion typically used for adult cochlear implant candidacy in the better-hearing ear?

Accepted Answer

70 dB HL

Answer

Current FDA guidelines and most centers require a PTA of 70 dB HL or greater in the better ear as part of adult cochlear implant candidacy.

Question 3

Which speech recognition score threshold is commonly used as part of adult CI candidacy evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Less than 60% on aided CNC word recognition

Answer

Adults scoring less than 60% on aided CNC monosyllabic word recognition tests in the best-aided condition typically meet speech perception criteria for CI candidacy.

Question 4

What does the term 'neural response telemetry' (NRT) or 'neural response imaging' (NRI) measure during cochlear implant programming?

Accepted Answer

The electrically evoked compound action potential of the auditory nerve

Answer

NRT/NRI measures the electrically evoked compound action potential (ECAP) of the auditory nerve, providing objective data to guide initial CI programming.

Question 5

In cochlear implant programming, what does 'T-level' (threshold level) refer to?

Accepted Answer

The minimum level of electrical stimulation that produces a just-audible percept

Answer

The T-level is the minimum electrical stimulation level at which the CI recipient just barely perceives sound, analogous to a threshold in behavioral audiometry.

(ABA) American Board of Audiology Practice Test

(ABA) American Board of Audiology Practice Test

ABA Cochlear Implants & Implantable Hearing Devices