Cochlear Implant Complicated by Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infection: Report and Literature Review

Objective: Nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) infection of cochlear implants are exceedingly rare. Here, we report one such case and review the literature surrounding previous reports. Methods: Case report. Case Report: A 76-year-old female underwent right cochlear implantation. Her course was complicated by wound dehiscence, three surgical debridements, and ultimately explantation. Cultures ultimately grew Mycobacterium abscessus, which was effectively treated with Azithromycin, Omadacycline, and 3 months of injectable Cefoxitin. At the latest follow-up, the patient is without evidence of further infection and pending reimplantation. Conclusion: NTM is a rare cause of postsurgical infections following cochlear implantation. It is especially important to consider this in cases of indolent, antibiotic-resistant infections to optimize patient treatment.