Cochlear implantation in the presence of a programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt.
OBJECTIVE
Document challenges of cochlear implantation in the presence of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) with a programmable valve.


METHODS
A 7-month-old, postmeningitic, hydrocephalic infant with profound sensorineural hearing loss.


METHODS
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt revision with a nonprogrammable valve and bilateral cochlear implantation. Magnetic fields generated by cochlear implant (CI) transmitting coil magnets were measured ex vivo.


METHODS
Successful implantation and elimination of potential hazardous interaction between CI and VPS.


RESULTS
Index patient reviewed and magnetic field strength presented.


CONCLUSIONS
Strong magnetic fields can potentially alter the pressure setting of programmable shunt valves, causing overdrainage or underdrainage and potential serious consequences. Clear communication between the involved medical specialties is required for optimal management of patients requiring both VPS and CI.
Wiet
Richard Mark
RM
Ear Institute of Chicago, Hinsdale, Illinois, USA.
El-Kashlan
Hussam K
HK
D002138:Calibration; D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000379:methods*; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006319:Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D007223:Infant; D007804:Language Development; D008297:Male; D008581:Meningitis / Q000150:complications; D017287:Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / Q000295:instrumentation