Cochlear Implantation Following Neonatal Meningitis: A Rare Case Report

Bacterial meningitis in neonates may lead to profound sensorineural hearing loss and rapid postinflammatory cochlear changes that complicate auditory rehabilitation. We present two infants with bilateral profound hearing loss following neonatal bacterial meningitis who underwent early bilateral cochlear implantation. Radiological findings were limited or subtle, but intraoperative findings confirmed cochlear obstruction/ossification requiring adapted surgical management. Full electrode insertion was achieved in both children. Postoperative outcomes showed auditory benefit in both cases, although further development was strongly influenced by associated neurological comorbidities. These cases highlight the importance of early hearing assessment, repeated audiological follow-up, prompt imaging, and timely cochlear implantation in postmeningitic hearing loss.