A Factor to Consider

When choosing a cochlear implant, numerous factors go into the decision-making process. For many people, the size of the speech processor is very important. For others, battery life is a major consideration. However, there are other issues to consider when selecting an implant for yourself or your child. One important factor that is often overlooked is the length of the electrode array.

A long electrode array that is safely inserted ensures coverage of the entire cochlea.


Complete coverage means the ability to stimulate all the available auditory nerve fibers. The neural tissues that can be stimulated by a cochlear implant extend all the way to the uppermost region of the cochlea (apex) via long nerve fibers. Since the auditory nerve fibers located all along the cochlea spiral are each specialized for processing specific pitches, the ability to stimulate all of them provides the implant user a richer, more natural sound quality¹. Additionally, complete cochlear coverage may provide a more extensive opportunity for the development and maturation of the auditory system in young children².