Neurotrophins reportedly improve hearing outcomes when used in combination with cochlear implants, as they promote the survival of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) and stimulate SGN neurite outgrowth in animal models of sensorineural hearing loss. However, their applicability to human patients remains unknown....
✦ Clinical Takeaway ✦
No actionable change for current cochlear implant practice; neurotrophin adjunct therapy remains experimental with no approved clinical delivery method, and this review is preclinical in focus.
✦ Why It Matters ✦
If neurotrophin delivery can be safely integrated with cochlear implantation, it could meaningfully improve hearing nerve survival and long-term implant outcomes.
✦ Key Points ✦
- 01Neurotrophins promote spiral ganglion neuron survival and neurite growth, critical for cochlear implant performance.
- 02