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[Pneumolabyrinth after barotrauma in a patient with cochlear implants]
S Marti1,2, N Iob3,4, D Bächinger5,3
1Klinik für Ohren‑, Nasen‑, Hals und Gesichtschirurgie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091, Zürich, Schweiz. silvan.marti@gmail.com.
HNO
|April 8, 2025
Summary
Recurrent pneumolabyrinth in a patient with bilateral cochlear implants, caused by barotrauma, led to vestibular and implant issues. Surgical repair and Eustachian tube balloon dilation were performed.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Audiology
Background:
- Barotrauma can cause inner ear issues like pneumolabyrinth.
- Cochlear implants are susceptible to malfunction from inner ear pressure changes.
- Recurrent pneumolabyrinth is rare, especially in cochlear implant recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a unique case of recurrent barotrauma-induced pneumolabyrinth in a patient with bilateral cochlear implants.
- To highlight the challenges in managing such cases.
- To report the outcome of surgical and preventative interventions.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 54-year-old female with bilateral cochlear implants.
- Documentation of recurrent left-sided pneumolabyrinth episodes over 6 years.
- Surgical repair of suspected perilymphatic fistula (3 times).
- Preventative balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced recurrent pneumolabyrinth and associated acute peripheral vestibular disorder.
- Cochlear implant malfunction occurred during episodes.
- Multiple surgical interventions were performed for suspected perilymphatic fistula.
- Successful outcome following Eustachian tube balloon dilation.
Conclusions:
- This is the first reported case of recurrent barotrauma-induced pneumolabyrinth in a cochlear implant patient.
- Management requires addressing both the fistula and Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Eustachian tube balloon dilation may be a viable preventative strategy.
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