Cochlear implantation and far-advanced otosclerosis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate results of cochlear implantation in patients with far-advanced otosclerosis.

METHODS

Sixteen patients with far-advanced otosclerosis had undergone unilateral (n = 13) or bilateral (n = 3) cochlear implantation. Surgical difficulties, incidence of complications and postoperative benefit were analyzed.

RESULTS

A full electrode insertion was achieved in all patients without surgical difficulties. All patients demonstrated excellent benefit of cochlear implantation. Binaural implantation still improves speech performances, compared to unilateral implantation. In case of residual cochlear function of one nonoperated side, a stapes surgery, performed during the same surgical time as cochlear implantation, can improve speech scores and restore bilateral hearing. Facial nerve stimulation occurred only in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Cochlear implantation is the method of choice for rehabilitation of patients with otosclerosis, presenting profound or total hearing loss. Patients obtain excellent benefit with a low rate of complications.