Objective: To evaluate the intraoperative problems and postoperative complications in children receiving cochlear implants.
Study design: A retrospective analysis of the clinical records of 366 children, aged 1 to 14 years, who had received cochlear implants.
Results: Intraoperatively, obliteration of the cochlea occurred in 66 patients, cochlear dysplasia in 8, and CSF leakage in 7, and nearly 5% of patients had signs of infection in the mucosa of the middle ear. Postoperatively, early complications occurred in 1% to 2.5% of patients: flap complications, electrode dislocation, facial nerve problems, and incorrect insertion of the electrode. Delayed complications included otitis media and stimulation of the facial nerve.
Conclusion: Proper preparation of the implantation site, experienced and well-trained surgeons, and awareness of the operative and postoperative risks are necessary.