N. Kallweit
M. Tomanek
D. Heinemann
A. Krüger
A. Heisterkamp
T. Ripken

Macrobending losses of glass fibers for optical cochlear stimulation

Proc. International Conference on Applied Optics and Photonics
1-2
2016
Type: Zeitschriftenaufsatz (non-reviewed)
Abstract
Laser stimulation of the cochlea could be a potential alternative to conventional electric cochlear implants in treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. Light delivery by an optical fiber necessitates fiber bending inside the inner ear, which can lead to energy losses. In order to assess those effects, measurements of attenuation and breakage due to fiber bending were performed. Fibers with smaller diameters can withstand smaller bend radii. Energy losses could be reduced with smaller core diameters and higher NA. In conclusion, the results provide a basis for further studies regarding the optical stimulation of the cochlea.