Cochlear implantation using the underwater technique: long-term results.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Cochlear implantation surgery risks inner ear structures from pressure shock.
• The underwater technique uses Ringer Solution to stabilize pressure during cochlear implant surgery.
• This method aims to prevent pressure shock to delicate inner ear structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy of the underwater technique for cochlear implantation.
• To assess hearing preservation rates using this atraumatic surgical approach.
• To analyze the impact of the underwater technique on residual hearing post-implantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 47 cochlear implantations in 43 patients with pre-existing residual hearing.
• Cochlear implantation performed via the round window using a full-length electrode in the underwater technique.
• Residual hearing changes were analyzed at 7 weeks and 24 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Hearing preservation was observed in 47% of ears at 7 weeks post-implantation.
• At an average follow-up of 24 months, hearing preservation was noted in 38% of ears.
• No significant impact on hearing loss was found related to follow-up duration or electrode type.

Conclusions:

• The underwater technique is an atraumatic approach for cochlear implantation.
• Hearing preservation rates are comparable to existing literature.
• Minimal hearing preservation decline was observed over time, even with full-length electrodes.