Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 7, 2026
Author Spotlight: Advancements in Impedance Monitoring for Cochlear Implant Surgery
Published on: August 4, 2023
The Prevalence of Cochlear Obliteration After Labyrinthectomy Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and the Implications
Simon D Charlett1, Nigel Biggs
1ENT Department, St. Vincent's Public Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of cochlear obliteration after labyrinthectomy.
Study Design:
Retrospective review of medical records.
Setting:
Tertiary referral center.
Patients:
Sixty-five patients who had previously undergone resection of an acoustic neuroma through a translabyrinthine approach.
Intervention:
The magnetic resonance studies were analyzed as part of the routine surveillance after tumor resection.
Main Outcome Measure:
To determine whether the cochlear lumen remained fluid filled.
Results:
Sixty-five cochleas were examined. Forty-four cochleas were patent and, of the remaining 21, 9 were obliterated and 12 were partially obliterated. The average length of follow-up for the patent, partially obliterated, and obliterated cochlea groups was 47, 29, and 77 months, respectively.
Conclusion:
Obliteration of the cochlea, either partially or completely, occurs in approximately one-third of patients. Time elapsed after labyrinthectomy did not seem to be a predictor of cochlear obliteration.
