Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
Robotic Cochlear Implantation for Direct Cochlear Access
Published on: June 16, 2022
Retrolabyrinthine approach for surgical placement of auditory brainstem implants in children
Ricardo Ferreira Bento1, Tatiana Alves Monteiro, Robinson Koji Tsuji
1Division of Otorhinolaryngology, University of São Paulo Medical School, Brazil.
Conclusion:
The extended retrolabyrinthine approach (RLA) is a safe and reliable approach for auditory brainstem placement in children. The surgical landmarks to reach cochlear nucleus are adequately exposed by this approach.
Objective:
To describe a new approach option for auditory brainstem implants (ABIs) in children, highlighting the anatomical landmarks to appropriately expose the foramen of Luschka.
Methods:
Three prelingually deafened children consecutively operated for ABIs via the RLA.
Results:
ABI placement via the RLA was successfully performed in all children without any further complications except multidirectional nystagmus in one child. The RLA we employed differed from that used for vestibular schwannoma only in the removal of the posterior semicircular canal. The lateral and superior semicircular canals and the vestibule remained intact, and there was no need to expose the dura of the internal auditory meatus. The jugular bulb was completely exposed to allow adequate visualization of the ninth cranial nerve and cerebellar flocculus.
