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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

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Robotic Cochlear Implantation for Direct Cochlear Access
Published on: June 16, 2022
Cochlear implantation in 3 adults with auditory neuropathy/auditory dys-synchrony
E M R De Leenheer1, I J M Dhooge, E Veuillet
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium. Els.DeLeenheer@ugent.be
Summary
Cochlear implantation shows mixed results for auditory neuropathy/dys-synchrony (AN/AD) patients with absent ABRs and present OAEs. Careful patient selection and counseling are crucial for successful outcomes in these complex cases.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neuroscience
- Audiology
Background:
- Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) is characterized by abnormal auditory nerve function despite intact cochlear outer hair cells.
- Patients often present with absent or poorly formed auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and present otoacoustic emissions (OAEs).
- Cochlear implantation is a potential treatment for severe to profound hearing loss, but its efficacy in ANSD is variable.
Observation:
- This study reports on three adult patients diagnosed with auditory neuropathy/dys-synchrony (AN/AD).
- All patients exhibited absent or poorly formed ABRs with preserved OAEs, consistent with AN/AD.
- The patients presented with diverse etiologies and clinical manifestations of AN/AD.
Findings:
- Cochlear implantation was performed in all three adult patients with AN/AD.
- Successful auditory rehabilitation was achieved in two out of the three cases.
- The outcomes highlight the heterogeneity of AN/AD and its impact on cochlear implant success.
Implications:
- Cochlear implantation can be beneficial for select adult AN/AD patients.
- Careful pre-operative evaluation and counseling are essential for managing patient expectations.
- Further research is needed to identify predictors of successful cochlear implantation in AN/AD.