[Minimally-invasive incision using the implantable Hearing device Carina].

OBJECTIVE

The skin incision for cochlear implants and active middle ear implants like Vibrant Soundbridge and Bonebridge has evolved toward a minimally invasive access in recent years.For the active middle ear implant CARINA a significantly larger incision is recommended, which corresponds to that of Cochlear Implant care nearly two decades ago.As a result, increased complication rates due to extended incision can be expected.

METHODS

In order to minimize the complication rate for the active middle ear implant CARINA the possibility for minimally invasive incisions was reconsidered and developed.

RESULTS

Up to now, 4 patients have been successfully treated with a CARINA system with the minimally invasive skin incision of less than 5 cm length without postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

By optimizing the fixation by using self-tapping screws, this access route can be established as a standard.