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How safe is diathermy in patients with cochlear implants?

S J Frampton¹, H Ismail-Koch, T E Mitchell

¹The South of England Cochlear Implant Centre, UK. steveframpton@doctors.org.uk

Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England

|November 8, 2012

Summary

Many surgeons are unaware of cochlear implant safety guidelines regarding diathermy use. This knowledge gap poses a risk to patients with cochlear implants, highlighting the need for increased awareness of safe surgical practices.

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Area of Science:

Otorhinolaryngology
Neurosurgery
Medical Device Safety

Background:

Cochlear implants (CIs) are electrical devices for profound deafness, vulnerable to electromagnetic interference.
Surgical diathermy poses a risk of damage to CIs due to electrical energy.
Existing guidelines restrict diathermy use near CIs to prevent harm.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess surgeon awareness of diathermy safety guidelines for cochlear implant patients.
To identify deficits in knowledge that could compromise patient safety.

Main Methods:

A questionnaire was distributed to 36 head and neck surgeons.
35 surgeons responded regarding their knowledge of diathermy safety with CIs.

Main Results:

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77% of surgeons were unaware of published diathermy safety guidelines for CIs.
11% incorrectly believed monopolar diathermy was safe above the clavicles.
49% believed bipolar diathermy had no usage restrictions near CIs.

Conclusions:

A significant knowledge deficit exists regarding safe diathermy practices in cochlear implant patients.
This lack of awareness threatens patient safety.
Increased awareness of guidelines is crucial for the surgical community.