Health Australia CU- Cochlear implants are often performed to improve hearing and in comparison, to a hearing aid which usually elevates the volume, the cochlear implant can directly reach the auditory nerve hence improving hearing much more effectively. Cochlear implantation is usually performed under a general anesthetic, but recent studies have indicated that localized anesthetics might be effective.
Research has demonstrated that cochlear implantation is the most ideal treatment for hearing restoration for those with severe and profound hearing loss. Patients who had cochlear implants report an enhancement in speech clarity and understanding.
In spite the success a major downside in cochlear implants is forecasting outcomes of the procedure, which is a major stumbling block for potential recipients.
Scar tissue has often been a concern with the Cochlear implantation. Scar tissue usually gets produced right round the electrodes, where at certain times leads to poor conditions, affecting the performance of the device. Scarring can also occur within the cochlea after cochlear implant surgery. The possibility of determining the pattern of the scarring cannot be conducted in the absence of invasive surgery.
Ear Science Institute Australia who are dedicated to achieving better results for hearing implants took on the task of recruiting researchers to go into the greater details of implant research.
The study was led by Cecilia Prêle, Associate Professor of the University of Western Australia who has specialties in lung fibrosis. Professor Prêle focused on the possibility of anti-fibrotic drugs (used to slow the progression of scarring in lungs) to lower the scar tissue production in the cochlea. The research has been recognized with an award from the National Health and Medical Research Council’s Ideas Grant.
“We wanted to understand the impact of fibrosis following surgery better. Cecilia’s knowledge and experience in this area meant she was a great fit for this project,” said Ear Science CEO Sandra Bellekom.
