gms | German Medical Science

The Otodrive system is an innovative motorized technology designed to assist in the cochlear electrode insertion process, promoting hearing preservation through controlled, precise, and slow-paced insertions. The system allows for an insertion time of up to 4 minutes, facilitating a steady pace critical for minimizing intracochlear trauma. Surgeons control the motorized insertion via a foot switch, while the device’s Otoarm component ensures optimal angulation and alignment with the cochlear round window. Manual placement of the electrode into the system's forceps precedes the motorized insertion phase.

To date, the Otodrive system has been utilized in 7 patient cases, executed by three surgeons. Hearing preservation was achieved in 3 patients, with the study group demonstrating an average post-operative bone conduction hearing loss of 10.8 dB. Key observations from this initial experience highlight the importance of mastering the system"s forceps and aligners, which require significant practice due to the lack of tactile feedback. Additionally, while the slow insertion speed supports hearing preservation, this factor alone does not ensure optimal outcomes. Manual guidance of the electrode during insertion introduces a degree of variability, and careful removal of the forceps post-insertion is critical to avoid perilymphatic disturbance and potential damage to cochlear hair cells.

These findings underscore the potential of the Otodrive system in advancing cochlear implantation techniques while emphasizing the need for refinement in system design and surgical technique to further enhance safety and efficacy.