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

Single-center Non-inferiority Study of Extra-cochlear Electrode Placement at the Post-auricular Vagus Nerve in Cochlear Implantation

This study will evaluate hearing outcomes after cochlear implantation with placement of the ECE1 ground electrode near the post-auricular vagus nerve (Arnold's nerve) to assess non-inferiority with respect to placement under the temporalis muscle.

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.