Simultaneous Cochlear and Auditory Brainstem Implantation in Children With Severe Inner Ear Malformations: Initial Surgical and Audiological Results

Abstract

Objective: To report the initial surgical and audiological outcomes of three pediatric patients with severe inner ear malformations who were simultaneously implanted with cochlear and brainstem implants in the same surgical session.

Study design: Retrospective case review.

Setting: Tertiary referral center.

Patients: Three pediatric patients with severe inner ear malformations between ages of 1.9 to 2.5 years, who were simultaneously implanted with cochlear implant in one ear and auditory brainstem implant in the other ear.

Intervention(s): Simultaneous application of cochlar implant in one ear, auditory brainstem implant in the other ear.

Main outcome measures: Free field thresholds with cochlear and brainstem implants. Surgical issues are also discussed.

Results: The study is descriptive in nature. Free field thresholds with each device alone and together showed good progress. One of the patients had slower progress possibly due to comorbid CHARGE syndrome.

Conclusions: The results showed good progress in terms of audition with both devices. Simultaneous cochlear and brainstem application serves as a remedy for pediatric patients who are candidates for cochlear implant on one side and brainstem implant on the other side. With this simultaneous application precious time for auditory development is not lost.