Chronic middle ear disease and cochlear implantation.

We have presented three patients with bilateral CSOM who were otherwise suitable for cochlear implantation. These patients had conventional surgical management of CSOM and were implanted after a period of 6 months through apparently healthy middle ears. However, all three had a recurrence of middle ear disease requiring further surgery, and one had a potentially life-threatening complication necessitating removal of the implant. Before considering cochlear implantation in patients with bilateral CSOM, it is essential to eradicate all disease, and radical mastoidectomy with obliteration may be necessary. The use of a cochlear sealing device may further ensure prevention of infection spreading into the cochlea.