Extra-cochlear Electrode Placement at the Post-auricular Vagus Nerve in Cochlear Implantation

Launched by NYU LANGONE HEALTH · Jun 2, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new way to place a special electrode during cochlear implant surgery, which is a procedure to help people with hearing loss. The researchers want to see if placing the electrode near a specific nerve called the post-auricular vagus nerve (also known as Arnold's nerve) can provide similar or better hearing outcomes compared to the traditional method of placing it under the temporalis muscle.

To participate in this study, you need to be planning to get a cochlear implant from Cochlear Americas and be willing to take part in the research. However, if you have had previous ear surgeries, certain ear malformations, or have already received a cochlear implant in the same ear, you won’t be eligible. The trial is open to people aged 65 to 74, and they want to include all genders. If you join, you will help researchers learn more about the best ways to improve hearing for future patients. Please note that the trial is not yet recruiting participants.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • will be undergoing surgery for a cochlear implant from Cochlear Americas
• • is willing to participate in the study
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • has history of prior ear surgery, congenital ear malformation, or prior cochlear implantation in the ear to be implanted
• • pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding patients cannot undergo the standard-of-care implantation procedures required for participation in the study.