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Remote Intraoperative Monitoring During Cochlear Implant Surgery Is Feasible and Efficient

from Otology & Neurotology

Objectives: Intraoperative testing of cochlear implant devices, establishment of electrical threshold for acoustic reflex, and recording neural responses to electrical stimulation have traditionally required the presence of a cochlear implant audiologist in the operating room. The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of remote testing to improve time efficiency and reduce cost.

Study Design: Prospective.

Methods: A standard PC with Tridia VNC software and either Cochlear Corporation or Advanced Bionics Corporation mapping software was configured to perform remote testing. The time required to perform on-site or remote testing was measured.

Results: With the availability of the laptop and internet access, there were no geographic restrictions regarding the site of remote testing. Remote testing was time efficient, requiring 9 minutes of audiologist’s time compared with 93 minutes when the audiologist had to travel to the operating room.

Conclusion: Remote testing of the cochlear implant device and patient’s response to electrical stimulation is technically feasible. It is timesaving, practical, and cost efficient.

June 2, 2008 - Posted by Callier Library | Uncategorized | | No Comments

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