Delayed Extradural CSF Collection Following Pediatric Cochlear Implantation: Report of Two Cases.

INTRODUCTION

Although rare, complications in cochlear implantation may result from surgical or technical mishaps, reaction to the foreign body, infection, or mechanical device failure. Delayed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a rarely reported condition that may present with asymptomatic swelling over the receiver-stimulator (RS). In our practice, meticulous drilling of a bony well is important in preventing device migration and maintaining a low device profile but there is the potential for immediate or delayed complication from this technique.

OBJECTIVE

We report two cases of the diagnosis and management of delayed extradural CSF collection of the RS bony well and describe its successful management.

PATIENTS: Two pediatric cochlear implant patients, 10 and 17 months of age with devices from different manufacturers.

INTERVENTION(S): Operative exploration and repair without device removal.

MAIN OUTCOME AND

RESULTS

Although the initial postoperative course was uncomplicated with both patients receiving benefit from their device, both presented at varying intervals month(s) later with swelling over the RS. There were no signs of infection but the swelling prevented use of the device. Extradural CSF collection was suspected, confirmed operatively, and repaired with complete resolution without the need for reimplantation.

CONCLUSION

Delayed CSF leak may present as an asymptomatic swelling over the RS after cochlear implantation. Sterile fluid aspiration may confirm the diagnosis and management can proceed conservatively or with operative exploration and repair. Future device designs with lower profiles may facilitate device fixation while allowing for a more shallow well, further reducing the risk of this rare complication.