The current status and future of using computational models to individually optimise cochlear implant stimulation

Journal Article (2026)
Author(s)

Randy K. Kalkman (Leiden University Medical Center, TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)

Jeroen J. Briaire (Universiteit Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center)

Johan H.M. Frijns (Universiteit Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center, TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)

Research Group
Bio-Electronics
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1080/17434440.2026.2631554 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Research Group
Bio-Electronics
Journal title
Expert Review of Medical Devices
Issue number
4
Volume number
23
Pages (from-to)
361-368
Downloads counter
30
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Abstract

Introduction: Computational modeling of cochlear implant stimulation has a long history, but its development has mostly been restricted to generic models, with patient-specific modeling being relatively rare, in spite of its potential applications in both research and clinical practice. Areas covered: The present state of computational cochlear implant models is discussed in relation to patient-specific modeling. From three-dimensional geometries derived from clinical imaging to full end-to-end models of the electrically stimulated peripheral auditory system, computational cochlear implant models have progressed to the point where they can meaningfully simulate responses to complex (speech) stimuli. Expert opinion: The development of patient-specific models that could be used to study the underlying mechanisms of cochlear implant functioning and ultimately be applied to make clinical diagnoses and recommendations, is within reach. However, there are still obstacles to overcome; the most immediate of these is the issue of auditory neural health, which is currently impossible to definitively assess in a living subject, yet has profound effects on electrical stimulation.