Aebischer, PhilippPhilippAebischerMantokoudis, GeorgiosGeorgiosMantokoudisWeder, Stefan AndreasStefan AndreasWeder0000-0002-2079-2047Anschütz, Lukas PeterLukas PeterAnschützCaversaccio, MarcoMarcoCaversaccioWimmer, WilhelmWilhelmWimmer0000-0001-5392-20742024-10-052024-10-052022-01https://boris-portal.unibe.ch/handle/20.500.12422/56914Objective: The insertion of the electrode array is a critical step in cochlear implantation. Herein we comprehensively investigate the impact of the alignment angle and feed-forward speed on deep insertions in artificial scala tympani models with accurate macro-anatomy and controlled frictional properties. Methods: Motorized insertions (n=1033) were performed in six scala tympani models with varying speeds and alignment angles. We evaluated reaction forces and micrographs of the insertion process and developed a mathematical model to estimate the normal force distribution along the electrode arrays. Results: Insertions parallel to the cochlear base significantly reduce insertion energies and lead to smoother array movement. Non-constant insertion speeds allow to reduce insertion forces for a fixed total insertion time compared to a constant feed rate. Conclusion: In cochlear implantation, smoothness and peak forces can be reduced with alignment angles parallel to the scala tympani centerline and with non-constant feed-forward speed profiles. Significance: Our results may help to provide clinical guidelines and improve surgical tools for manual and automated cochlear implantation.en600 - Technology::610 - Medicine & healtharticle10.48350/1568703411098710.1109/TBME.2021.3088232