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Updated: May 19, 2026
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Performing Repeated Intraoperative Impedance Telemetry Measurements during Cochlear Implantation
Published on: August 4, 2023
Management of electrode exposure after cochlear implantation
Evan S Walgama1, Brandon Isaacson, J Walter Kutz
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-9035, USA.
Summary
Cochlear implant electrode array exposure is rare but often manageable without surgery. Most patients with exposed arrays and functioning implants did well with observation and medical management, avoiding revision surgery.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cochlear implant electrode array exposure in the middle ear or external auditory canal is an uncommon complication.
- This study reports on 7 patients experiencing this complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the outcomes of patients with electrode array exposure following cochlear implantation.
- To evaluate management strategies and long-term results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series design.
- Data collected from a tertiary neurotology practice.
- Inclusion criteria: patients with cochlear implant electrode exposure in the middle ear or external auditory canal.
Main Results:
- Five out of seven patients were managed successfully without surgical intervention.
- One patient required implant reprogramming due to poor function, which was restored to baseline.
- Four patients required no reprogramming and were managed medically, with no deterioration in implant function.
- Follow-up ranged from 2 to 6 years with no serious complications reported.
Conclusions:
- Conservative management, including careful observation, is a viable option for select patients with exposed cochlear implant electrode arrays.
- This approach can be effective when the cochlear implant remains functional.