Parameterisation and prediction of intra‑canal cochlear structures

Abstract

Accurate 3D models of the cochlea are useful tools for research in the relationship between the electrode array and nerve fbres. The internal geometry of the cochlear canal plays an important role in understanding and quantifying that relationship. Predicting the location and shapes of the geometry is done by measuring histologic sections and ftting equations that can be used to predict parameters that fully defne the geometry. A parameter sensitivity analysis is employed to prove that the size and location of the spiral lamina are the characteristics that most infuence current distribution along target nerve fbres. The proposed landmark prediction method more accurately predicts the location of the points defning the spiral lamina in the apical region of the cochlea than methods used in previous modelling attempts. Thus, this technique can be used to generate 2D geometries that can be expanded to 3D models when high-resolution imaging is not available.