Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
06:54
Performing Repeated Intraoperative Impedance Telemetry Measurements during Cochlear Implantation
Published on: August 4, 2023
Does meningitis after cochlear implantation remain a concern in 2011?
1Department of Otolaryngology, New York University School of Medicine, New York City, New York, USA.
Summary
Meningitis following cochlear implantation remains a concern, with vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae offering a key preventive strategy. While cases continue, the overall incidence appears to be decreasing.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Disease
- Public Health
Background:
- Cochlear implantation is a vital auditory restoration technology.
- Post-implantation meningitis is a rare but serious complication, particularly in pediatric recipients.
- Since 2002, 283 cases and 30 fatalities have been reported to the CDC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To track the incidence and trends of meningitis after cochlear implantation.
- To identify potential etiologic factors and preventive measures for post-implantation meningitis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of reported cases from the CDC Database Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE).
- Review of potential etiologic factors and the impact of device modifications.
- Evaluation of preventive strategies, including vaccination.
Main Results:
- Despite device changes, meningitis cases persist, with approximately 20 new cases annually worldwide.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a primary causative agent.
- Vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae is a powerful preventive tool.
Conclusions:
- Meningitis following cochlear implantation, while serious, may be diminishing in incidence.
- Vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae is crucial for mitigating this risk.
- Continued surveillance and preventive strategies are essential.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...
01:18Viral Meningitis
Viral meningitis is the most common form of meningitis and is often referred to as aseptic meningitis to indicate the absence of bacterial involvement. It is generally milder than bacterial meningitis, with symptoms including fever, headache, stiff neck, drowsiness, nausea, photophobia, and vomiting. Rarely, more severe manifestations or death may occur. Common causative agents include enteroviruses, particularly coxsackie A and B viruses and echoviruses, all members of the Enterovirus genus...
01:26Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology
Bacterial meningitis typically begins when pathogens such as Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae colonize the nasopharynx and invade the bloodstream. This process is facilitated by bacterial virulence factors, such as polysaccharide capsules, which resist phagocytosis and complement-mediated killing. Less commonly, bacteria reach the central nervous system via contiguous spread from infections like otitis media or sinusitis, through congenital or acquired dural defects, or...
01:19Encephalitis l: Introduction
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain parenchyma, most often due to infections or autoimmune processes. It presents with neuropsychiatric features such as fever, altered mental status, behavioral changes, cognitive dysfunction, seizures, focal deficits, and sometimes autonomic instability. In some cases, the meninges are also involved, resulting in meningoencephalitis.Infectious CausesInfectious encephalitis is most commonly viral but can also result from bacterial, fungal, or parasitic...