Effect of otitis media with effusion on cochlear implant surgery: technical difficulties, post-operative complications and outcome.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the complications and outcomes of cochlear implantation in patients who had otitis media with effusion at the time of surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review study was performed of 87 consecutive paediatric patients (age range 22 months to 10 years, mean 4.8 years) who underwent successful cochlear implantation, with follow-up periods of 5-6 years. All patients had unilateral implants, with eight on the left side. All devices were activated two weeks after implantation. The effect of the middle-ear condition on the procedure, post-operative complications and outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

Unilateral ears of 17 otitis media with effusion patients were implanted with some surgical difficulties but no long-term post-operative complications.

CONCLUSION

For children admitted for cochlear implantation who are subsequently found to have otitis media with effusion, surgeons should be aware of possible surgical difficulties. Greater intra-operative risks should be anticipated and more surgical time allowed for cochlear implantation in these patients.