Neural response telemetry – a clinical tool for programming speech processors in children with cochlear implant
Abstract
Programming of the speech-processors in children provided with Cochlear Implant causes sometimes problems, especially in very small children. This becomes important at this time as the implantation-age of the children decreases continuously.
With Neural Response Telemetry (NRT) stands for the Nucleus ® 24 Cochlear Implant system a new principle of programming of the speech processor at disposal, which allows an objective measurement of the adjusted parameters. This system is based on a bi-directional telemetry, which records the electric evoked compound action potential. Neural action potentials resulting from a stimulus applied on a selected electrode of the Cochlear Implant are measured from a neighbouring electrode, amplified and then encoded for transcutaneous transmission via the radio frequency coil back to the speech processor.
Advantages and disadvantages and first results of this technique in a group of children with Cochlear Implant are demonstrated in the paper.