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Updated: May 23, 2026
06:54
Performing Repeated Intraoperative Impedance Telemetry Measurements during Cochlear Implantation
Published on: August 4, 2023
Influence of cochlear implantation on the vestibular function.
Eirini Katsiari1, Dimitrios G Balatsouras, John Sengas
1Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Tzanion General Hospital, 1 Zanni & Afentouli, 18536 Piraeus, Greece.
Summary
Cochlear implantation can affect vestibular function, particularly the implanted side. However, significant long-term vertigo is rare after cochlear implant surgery, with no clear predictive factors identified.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neuroscience
- Audiology
Background:
- Cochlear implantation is a common treatment for severe to profound hearing loss.
- The impact of cochlear implants on the vestibular system requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the influence of cochlear implantation on vestibular function.
- To evaluate changes in the horizontal semicircular canal and saccular function post-implantation.
- To determine the incidence of vestibular symptoms and potential predictive factors.
Main Methods:
- Twenty patients undergoing unilateral cochlear implantation were evaluated.
- Vestibular function assessed preoperatively and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively.
- Methods included caloric testing with electronystagmography (ENG) and vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP).
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences were observed in canal paresis (p=0.01) and VEMP waveform absence (p=0.002) on the implanted side.
- No significant changes were found in the non-implanted side.
- Four patients reported postoperative vestibular symptoms, with only one experiencing persistent vertigo at 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Cochlear implantation leads to measurable changes in peripheral vestibular function on the implanted side.
- Permanent vertigo is an uncommon complication following cochlear implantation.
- No clear correlation was found between demographic/clinical factors and the occurrence of postoperative vertigo.
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