J Audiol Otol.
2022 Apr;26(2):103-107. 10.7874/jao.2021.00388.
Combined Endoscopic/Microscopic Cochlear Implantation Through the Oval Window
- Affiliations
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- 1Cochlear Implants Regional Center, San Carlo Regional Hospital, Potenza, Italy
- KMID: 2528277
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.7874/jao.2021.00388
Abstract
- Standard round window (RW) cochlear implantation is a well-described technique. Implantation might be difficult in patients with inner and middle ear anomalies, in some cases because of not achieving adequate exposure to the RW, with a related higher risk of complications such as facial nerve injury. It is proposed a combined microscopic/endoscopic oval window approach in a 63 year old man affected by bilateral Menière disease, with bilateral severe sensorineural hearing loss, speech discrimination score for bysillabic words under 40% and a hidden RW by anomalous facial nerve course. All electrodes entered the cochlear with good freefield thresholds and auditory ability results. A partial marginalis nerve palsy occurred at the second postoperative day and completely reversed at 2 months from surgery. Endoscopicassisted oval window cochlear implantation may be a safe alternative surgical technique in cases where surgeons are not able to access RW.
