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Cochlear implantation in children with otitis media
Jose N Fayad1, Abtin Tabaee, Jennifer N Micheletto
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, The New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 180 Fort Washington Avenue, Harkness Pavilion, Suite 813, New York, NY 10032, USA. jfayed@hei.org
The Laryngoscope
|July 3, 2003
Summary
Cochlear implantation in children with otitis media history showed reduced ear infections post-surgery. Ventilation tubes at implantation time help prevent complications, so don't delay this hearing restoration procedure.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Auditory Implants
- Infectious Disease Prevention
Background:
- Otitis media is common in children, potentially complicating cochlear implant outcomes.
- Understanding the impact of otitis media on pediatric cochlear implant recipients is crucial for surgical planning and post-operative care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of cochlear implantation in pediatric patients with a history of otitis media.
- To assess the incidence and management of otitis media following cochlear implantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 126 pediatric patients (<48 months) undergoing cochlear implantation.
- Analysis of demographics, complications, and history of otitis media and ventilation tube (VT) placement.
- Follow-up phone survey for 76 patients (mean 46 months) to determine long-term otitis media natural history.
Main Results:
- 72% of patients had a history of otitis media; 31% had >3 episodes.
- 23% received bilateral myringotomy and ventilation tubes (VT) around the time of implantation.
- Significant decrease in otitis media incidence post-cochlear implantation, irrespective of prior VT history.
Conclusions:
- Cochlear implantation can be safely performed in children with a history of otitis media.
- Placing ventilation tubes concurrently with cochlear implantation appears to prevent infectious complications in otitis-prone children.
- Cochlear implantation should not be deferred; otitis media episodes can be managed conventionally post-surgery.