Using Electrically Evoked Auditory Reflex Thresholds to Fit the Clarion® Cochlear Implant

Abstract

This paper describes a method for measuring electrically elicited auditory reflex thresholds (EARTs) in young children who use the CLARION® Multi-Strategy™ Cochlear Implant. The EART is an objective measure that can guide the fitting of a cochlear implant in individuals who are unable to perform behavioral tasks required to program the device. Reflexes were obtained in 11 of 17 pediatric Clarion users. The EART current level indicated a point at which an auditory percept was present and the sound was loud, but not uncomfortable. The EART then was used as a basis for conditioning behavioral responses, and as a guideline for setting most comfortable loudness levels.