Mini-incision for pediatric cochlear implantation with a MED-EL device.
OBJECTIVE
Minimal invasive approaches have been described for cochlear implantation. However, the number of reports about minimal invasive approaches for MED-EL devices is sparse. In this technical note, we describe our pediatric cochlear implantation and incision techniques for MED-EL devices.


METHODS
Among 92 cochlear implantations performed between November 2002 and November 2006, there were 32 consecutive pediatric cochlear implantations with MED-EL devices which were performed between July 2005 and October 2006. In our technique, standard posterior tympanotomy and cochleostomy were performed after 4- to 5-cm mini-incisions in the postauricular region. However, suture fixations were not used for the implant receiver nor its electrode.


RESULTS
There were 14 girls and 18 boys with a mean age of 3.9 years. The mean follow-up duration was 5.8 months. No flap necrosis, hematoma or infection, nor implant migration, extrusion or breakdown were encountered. Revision surgery was performed in 3 patients due to cochlear ossification, perilymph leakage and extracochlear implantation.


CONCLUSIONS
MED-EL implantation can be performed using small incisions without suture fixation of the receiver and its electrode.
Bayazit
Yildirim A
YA
Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. bayazity@yahoo.com
Goksu
Nebil
N
Ozbilen
Suat
S
D002675:Child, Preschool; D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D011474:Prosthesis Design