First auditory brainstem implantation in Poland: auditory perception results over 12 months.

Auditory brainstem implants (ABIs) are a modern method of treatment of total bilateral deafness in cases of extracochlear origin. In most cases therapy is applied in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). This paper presents the results of surgical treatment and rehabilitation in a 28-year-old woman with bilateral, multiple tumours of the central nervous system causing total deafness. Simultaneous removal of the tumours and implantation of ABI allowed treatment of the potentially lethal pathology and hearing restoration. Improving auditory skills and excellent tests results were noted in the year following implantation.