The American journal of otology
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A 12-channel cochlear implant (CI) for high-rate pulsatile stimulation strategies is presented. Symmetric biphasic current pulses can be generated up to a maximum pulse repetition rate of 18.18 kpulses/second. The stimulation pulse amplitude can be selected within 1.5 microA-1.5 mA. ⋯ Output capacitors for each channel are employed for safety reasons. A self-calibrating back telemetry system is included for estimating the channel impedances and field distribution along the electrode array. Dimensions of the ceramic package of the implant are only 33.50 x 23.40 x 3.95 mm3.
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Electrical stimulation of the cochlea at high rates induces significant adaptation of the auditory nerve. ⋯ The decrease of the WAVE I amplitude in response to high-rate pulsatile stimulation reflects an adaptation of the auditory nerve due, at least in part, to the refractory period of auditory nerve fibers.