A research team led by a Murdoch University Academic is leading the push to improve the results of cochlear implantation.
Most cochlear implant recipients report an improvement in speech clarity and understanding.
Despite successful outcomes for clients, predicting the results of cochlear implantation can be challenging for clinicians and a barrier for some when considering this life-changing technology.
Scarring within the cochlea is not entirely unexpected following cochlear implant surgery. It is the body’s way of reacting to the electrode, which it sees as a foreign body.
However, the ability to accurately determine cochlear scarring and the extent of scarring has been almost impossible without invasive surgery.
With a commitment to excellent outcomes for hearing implant recipients, Ear Science Institute Australia (Ear Science) proactively recruited scientists to delve further into this vital area of implant research.
With her expertise in lung fibrosis, Murdoch University's Senior Lecturer Cecilia Prêle, who also works at UWA, was recruited to the Ear Science team to take the lead, working to determine whether anti-fibrotic drugs can reduce the formation of this scar tissue in the cochlea.
This work has since been awarded a highly competitive National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) Ideas Grant.
“Any type of trauma, including that caused by surgery, ends up causing inflammation,” Senior Lecturer Prêle said.
Persistent chronic inflammation, over time, can lead to scarring."
Sandra Bellekom, CEO of Ear Science said Cecilia brought a wealth of knowledge to the team.
"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.”
This research project is supported by MED-EL, who donated the implant electrodes that the team needed for their experimental work. For over three decades, MED-EL has worked with clinicians, patients, and researchers focused on translational research. Hundreds of MED-EL implant recipients at the Ear Science Implant program continue to benefit from their technology.
Senior Lecturer Cecilia Prêle (Murdoch University and also a UWA Associate Professor), Associate Professor Wilhelmina Mulders (UWA), Professor Marcus Atlas (Ear Science Institute Australia) and Surgeon Scientist Clinical Associate Professor Jafri Kuthubutheen (UWA) are working together to test drugs currently used to treat scarring in the lung to determine their suitability for the inner ear.
“If we can find out how to inhibit the formation of scar tissue along the cochlear implant array, we believe it will improve the efficacy of the implant and improve the quality of life and hearing for implant recipients,” said Associate Professor Mulders.
There is still a long journey ahead, with tests for safety and correct dosage required and an efficient way to deliver the drugs deep within the cochlea to the most effective location for extended periods in development.
Republished with permission from Ear Science Institute Australia.