What is the main theoretical advantage of a perimodiolar (precurved) cochlear implant electrode array over a straight lateral wall array?
- A Easier insertion through an ossified basal turn
- B Closer apposition to spiral ganglion cells, reducing current spread and power consumption ✓
- C Preservation of residual low-frequency hearing
- D Reduced risk of electrode tip fold-over
Correct answer: B. Closer apposition to spiral ganglion cells, reducing current spread and power consumption
Explanation
A perimodiolar array hugs the modiolus after stylet removal, placing contacts nearer spiral ganglion cells. This lowers threshold and comfortable levels, reduces channel interaction from current spread, and conserves battery power. Hearing preservation work favors flexible thin lateral wall arrays, and tip fold-over is reported with both designs, so C and D do not hold.
Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.