Postural control before and after cochlear implantation: standard cochleostomy versus round window approach

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neuroscience
• Vestibular System

Background:

• Vestibular function is often impaired in patients undergoing cochlear implantation (CI).
• Pre-existing balance deficits are common in CI candidates.
• The surgical approach for CI may potentially impact vestibular function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if the cochlear implantation electrode insertion technique influences vestibular function.
• To assess the impact of standard cochleostomy (SC) versus round window (RW) insertion on balance control.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study measuring static and dynamic postural control and caloric vestibular function.
• 36 patients with SC insertion and 16 with RW insertion were evaluated before and after CI surgery.
• Utilized tests included modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance (mCTSIB), Rhythmic Weight Shift (RWS), Walk Across (WA), and Tandem Walk (TW).

Main Results:

• Caloric vestibular function remained normal in most patients, both pre- and post-surgery.
• No significant differences in mCTSIB results were observed between SC and RW groups.
• A significant improvement in mCTSIB composite values was noted within 6 weeks post-surgery for both groups.
• Dynamic standing balance (RWS) showed no significant postoperative changes.

Conclusions:

• The surgical approach for cochlear implantation does not influence postural control outcomes.
• Pre-existing vestibular impairments in most patients did not worsen after CI surgery.
• Cochlear implantation surgery may lead to improvements in static balance control.