Cochlear implantation in children with cochlear malformations.

OBJECTIVE

To address the surgical and habilitative issues raised by cochlear implantation in children with cochlear dysplasia.

STUDY

DESIGN

The English-language literature is reviewed and the New York University Medical Center experience with three patients is detailed. Two hundred institutions performing cochlear implants were queried by questionnaire.

SETTING

Hospitals performing cochlear implantation.

PATIENTS: Pediatric patients with a cochlear implant in an ear with a dysplastic cochlea.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Preoperative computed tomography analysis of cochlear anatomy was compared with operative findings, complications, and postoperative device use.

RESULTS

Facial nerve anatomy was anomalous in 16% of patients, and there were two surgical injuries. There were no cases of meningitis. All patients who received multichannel implants derive benefit and wear their devices.

CONCLUSIONS

All degrees of cochlear dysplasia, ranging from incomplete partition to common cavity, can be safely implanted and auditory responses expected.