Cochlear reimplantation rate, causes, and outcomes: a multicenter study

The current study aimed to evaluate cochlear reimplantation rate, causes, and audiological outcomes in a large group of patients in a multicenter study.

This retrospective study was conducted on patients with cochlear reimplantation surgeries between 2000 and 2022 in five academic referral centers. The rate and reasons for cochlear reimplantation surgeries were evaluated. The auditory performance and speech production outcomes were compared before and after cochlear reimplantation surgeries.

Of 9,287 primary cochlear implantation surgeries, 186 reimplantations were performed (a cochlear reimplantation rate of 2%). The highest risk of reimplantation was found 2 to 4 years after primary implantation. Device failure was the main reason for cochlear reimplantation (81.2%). The categories of auditory performance and speech intelligibility rating scores were unchanged or improved in 57 out of 59 patients (96.6%), and 55 out of 59 patients (93.2%), respectively.

The cochlear reimplantation rate seems to be relatively low, with the cause of device failure in most cases. While the highest risk of reimplantation happened during the first four years after primary surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary, particularly during this time. The audiological outcomes do not worsen after reimplantation in most patients, and some children may experience some improvements.