ABSTRACT
In order to study the effect of middle ear malformations on energy absorbance, we constructed a mechanical model that can simulate the energy absorbance of the human ear based on our previous human ear finite element model. The validation of this model was confirmed by two sets of experimental data. Based on this model, three common types of middle ear malformations,
Subject(s)
Humans , Ear Ossicles , Incus , MalleusABSTRACT
Objective To study the influence of middle ear malformation on the performance of round window stimulation, so as to provide references for optimization of the round window stimulation middle ear implant. Methods The finite element model of human ear including an asymmetrical two-cavity non-helical cochlea was constructed and compared with experimental data to verify reliability of the model. Based on this model, the effects of three kinds of middle ear malformation, i.e., ossicular chain fixation, ossicular chain fusion and ossicular defect on round window stimulation were simulated by changing material properties of the corresponding tissues. Results The middle ear malformation mainly affected the low-frequency performance of round window stimulation. The ossicular chain fixation and the ossicular chain fusion had a deteriorating effect on round window stimulation. The stapes fixation had the greatest effect on the performance of round window stimulation, with the reduction as high as 47.93 dB. Ossicles defects could improve the performance of round window stimulation, with the maximum increment of 6.24 dB. Conclusions The middle ear malformation had an effect on the low frequency performance of round window stimulation. It is necessary to specifically increase output of the actuator when implanting the round window stimulation middle ear implant.
ABSTRACT
In order to study the influence of tympanic membrane lesion and ossicular erosion caused by otitis media on the hearing compensation performance of round-window stimulation, a human ear finite element model including cochlear asymmetric structure was established by computed tomography (CT) technique and reverse engineering technique. The reliability of the model was verified by comparing with the published experimental data. Based on this model, the tympanic membrane lesion and ossicular erosion caused by otitis media were simulated by changing the corresponding tissue structure. Besides, these simulated diseases' effects on the round-window stimulation were studied by comparing the corresponding basilar-membrane's displacement at the frequency-dependent characteristic position. The results show that the thickening and the hardening of the tympanic membrane mainly deteriorated the hearing compensation performance of round-window stimulation in the low frequency; tympanic membrane perforation and the minor erosion of ossicle with ossicular chain connected slightly effected the hearing compensation performance of round-window stimulation. Whereas, different from the influence of the aforementioned lesions, the ossicular erosion involving the ossicular chain detachment increased its influence on performance of round-window stimulation at the low frequency. Therefore, the effect of otitis media on the hearing compensation performance of round-window stimulation should be considered comprehensively when designing its actuator, especially the low-frequency deterioration caused by the thickening and the hardening of the tympanic membrane; the actuator's low-frequency output should be enhanced accordingly to ensure its postoperative hearing compensation performance.