In adult cochlear implant users, conventional frequency (CF) mapping is standard practice. Tonotopic fitting (TF) refers to a programming strategy in which the frequency allocation of the speech processor is matched as closely as possible to the natural tonotopic organization of the cochlea. Whether TF mapping improves outcomes over CF remains uncertain.
If the meta-analysis demonstrates superior speech perception outcomes with tonotopic frequency mapping, cochlear implant audiologists should consider adopting tonotopically guided fitting protocols where manufacturer software supports it.
Optimising frequency-to-electrode mapping is one of the most controllable variables in cochlear implant fitting, and robust meta-analytic evidence could standardise a higher-performing fitting approach across centres.
- 01Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials — highest available level of evidence for CI fitting strategy comparisons.
- 02Directly compares tonotopic (place-matched) versus conventional frequency mapping in adult CI recipients.
- 03Tonotopic mapping attempts to align the programmed frequency range with each electrode's cochlear position.
- 04Outcomes likely include speech perception scores in quiet and noise.
- 05Findings have direct and immediate clinical applicability for CI fitting audiologists.
Tonotopic frequency mapping produces different hearing outcomes compared to conventional mapping in adult cochlear implant recipients.
studyunclear- PMID
- 42472950
- DOI
- 10.1007/s00405-026-10442-2.
- Journal
- European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
- Publication type
- meta_analysis
- Evidence level
- 1a
- Population
- Adult cochlear implant recipients
- Intervention
- Tonotopic frequency mapping fitting strategy for cochlear implants
- Comparator
- Conventional frequency mapping fitting strategy
Primary outcomes
Speech perception performance; Hearing outcomes with tonotopic vs conventional CI mapping