# Shape-Adaptive Cochlear Implant Electrode Arrays

> **NIH NIH R43** · QUALIA OTO, INC. · 2024 · $277,057

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
During this Phase I SBIR effort, we will assess the viability of shape-adaptive cochlear implant (CI) electrode
arrays as a new solution for achieving atraumatic cochlear implantation and optimal electrode positioning at the
same time. Lateral wall electrodes have historically been the preferred CI electrode option due to the higher
likelihood of achieving atraumatic insertion and preserving residual hearing. However, placing electrodes closer
to the modiolus of the cochlea can offer potential performance benefits, such as more focal stimulation and
reduced current spread, due to shorter distance from the electrode to the spiral ganglion neuron target.
Unfortunately, conventional perimodiolar electrodes suffer from higher rates of trauma and electrode
displacement (translocation), negatively affecting the preservation of residual hearing.
Here, we are addressing this long-standing challenge by utilizing shape-memory polymers (SMP) as a dynamic
element that induces programmed self-curling of the CI electrode arrays in the inner ear. This approach facilitates
gentle and gradual repositioning of the implanted arrays from the lateral wall to the modiolar wall without trauma.
By combining the advantages of both lateral wall electrodes (i.e., atraumatic insertion) and perimodiolar
electrodes (i.e., focal placement), the proposed technology enables reliable cochlear implantation and optimal
electrode placement at the same time, which is difficult to achieve with the current clinical CIs.
Our effort encompasses fabrication of SMP-inlaid, self-curling CI arrays, assessment of their implantation profiles
in a model cochlea as well as human temporal bones, and evaluation of insertion trauma by a histological
evaluation. We will rigorously validate our approach through mechanical and surgical analyses including dynamic
mechanical analysis and quantitative assessments of the insertion profiles based on macroscopic and
microscopic imaging.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11008666
- **Project number:** 1R43DC022220-01
- **Recipient organization:** QUALIA OTO, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Jimin Maeng
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $277,057
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-08-08 → 2025-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11008666

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11008666, Shape-Adaptive Cochlear Implant Electrode Arrays (1R43DC022220-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-12 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11008666. Licensed CC0.

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