Outpatient cochlear implantation in the pediatric population

Studies have shown that the incidence of complications in pediatric cochlear implant surgery is related to the age of the child, with a higher complication rate in younger patients. Consequently, many surgeons advocate admitting these children overnight. We began our pediatric cochlear implant program starting in June 1991 using the Nucleus 22-channel cochlear implant. To date, 65 children have undergone implantation, all on an outpatient basis. To evaluate safety, complication rate, and patient satisfaction, we gave the parents of the patients a questionnaire survey to complete. All patient charts were also retrospectively reviewed. More than 90% of parents surveyed responded that they were satisfied with the outpatient treatment of their children. There were no perioperative complications or readmissions. Cochlear implantation can be safely and effectively performed on an outpatient basis without an increase in morbidity. Day surgery reduces hospital costs at least $2500.