Skip to main content
Fig. 3 | Stem Cell Research & Therapy

Fig. 3

From: Biohybrid cochlear implants in human neurosensory restoration

Fig. 3

Determination of insertion forces in a cochlear model. a Electrode insertion for the measurement of force development due to implantation of a cell-coated electrode compared to uncoated electrode. Human-adjusted cochlear models were used. Electrodes were pre-inserted for 7 mm prior to the start of the measurements. This depth denoting the actual start of the registration of the insertion forces was defined as 0 mm. b At the maximum insertion depth of 12 mm, the electrode is regularly jollied. A total of five electrodes (two non-coated (CI) and three coated (biohybrid) cochlear implant electrodes) were used for the measurement of insertion forces. Each electrode was inserted repeatedly five times. c The insertion force was measured from 0 to the 12-mm insertion depth. Here, the mean forces measured at first insertion of each electrode without coating (blue) and with coating (red) are shown. There was no difference in the insertion forces between the coated and the non-coated electrodes. d One electrode was analysed for its stiffness compared to the coating, performing five measures without coating. Then, after coating of the same electrode with the fibrin cell solution, another measurement of insertion forces was performed showing that there are no increases in insertion forces due to the fibrin coating. e The first insertion of each biohybrid electrode (biohybrid) is depicted here (No.1–3) as well as the mean and standard deviation of all first biohybrid insertion forces. f The first insertion of each regular cochlear implant electrode (CI) is depicted here (No.1 and 2) as well as the mean and standard deviation of all first insertion forces. None of the electrodes showed increased insertion forces. g Each electrode is depicted here for direct comparison of the behaviour of uncoated and coated electrode. h The mean forces (including standard deviation) of each repeated insertion of biohybrid, as well as CI, electrodes show that there is no difference between the coated and the uncoated electrodes

Back to article page