Use of Bonebridge Implant in a Child with Congenital Cholesteatoma: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Congenital cholesteatoma is a relatively rare condition accounting for about 2% to 5% of all cholesteatomas. Congenital cholesteatomas pose a significant challenge to treat. Failure to detect cholesteatoma early can lead to progressive and severe damage to middle ear structures, resulting in hearing loss. If conventional hearing aids are not a viable option, a bone conduction implant may be considered. One of the most successful is the Bonebridge implant, designed for adults and children with conductive or mixed hearing loss. The aim of this study was to analyze the surgical implications, efficacy, and safety of the Bonebridge implant in our patient. CASE REPORT We report the case of a 10-year-old girl with a diagnosis of congenital cholesteatoma and progressive hearing loss. She had undergone multiple surgical procedures, with no lasting results. To improve hearing, she underwent a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation for an implantable bone conduction device, and she was found to be eligible for a Bonebridge implant. To verify the improvement in hearing, pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and the Polish Matrix Sentence Test were performed before implantation, during processor activation, and at the follow-up visit 3 months later. Follow-up was planned at 3 and 6 months to monitor for recurrence of cholesteatoma, with cavity checks every 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS After Bonebridge implantation, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in hearing thresholds and speech recognition. Implantation was uncomplicated and regular follow-ups were scheduled to monitor for recurrent cholesteatoma.