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Updated: Mar 17, 2026
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Author Spotlight: Advancements in Impedance Monitoring for Cochlear Implant Surgery
Published on: August 4, 2023
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Taste Disturbance Due to Cochlear Implant Stimulation
Corey S Shayman1, Jessica L Middaugh, Timothy E Hullar
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.
Summary
A patient experienced taste disturbance after cochlear implant activation. This taste alteration was linked to facial nerve stimulation by specific electrodes due to bone dehiscence near the cochlea.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Cochlear implantation is a common treatment for severe to profound hearing loss.
- Facial nerve stimulation can cause various adverse effects, including taste disturbances (dysgeusia).
- Understanding the anatomical relationship between the cochlea and the facial nerve is crucial for safe implantation.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old patient developed reversible dysgeusia after cochlear implant activation.
- Computed tomography revealed dehiscence (thinning or absence of bone) between the facial nerve canal and the basal turn of the cochlea.
- The electrodes (13-16) in the superior basal turn were implicated in the symptoms.
Findings:
- Dysgeusia was attributed to direct stimulation of taste fibers in the facial nerve by the cochlear implant electrode array.
- The anatomical proximity and bone dehiscence allowed for aberrant nerve stimulation.
- Targeted reprogramming of specific electrodes successfully reduced the intensity of the taste disturbance.
Implications:
- This case highlights a previously unreported cause of dysgeusia following cochlear implantation.
- Recognition of potential facial nerve-cochlear proximity and bone dehiscence is important for surgical planning.
- This finding may influence the selection of the implant side and electrode design to minimize risks.
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