Cochlear implantation in otosclerosis: Functional, technical, radiological and surgical aspects

Introduction Otosclerosis is a primary disease of the otic capsule and stapes footplate. If deafness occurs as a result of disease progression or stapes plastic surgery, this can seriously complicate the cochlear implantation and reduce its functional outcome.

Objective To evaluate the above mentioned aspects of this patient group compared to a standard collective, a retrospective study was performed.

Methods From 44 patients with confirmed otosclerosis, who were treated with a CI type Nucleus 512 and CI24RE (Cochlear Ltd.) between 2009 and 2015, the Freiburg monosyllable, HSM test as well as the impedances were evaluated at defined time points after implantation (Initial fitting and 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after) and compared to a control group of 550 patients with the same electrode.

Results With regard to the functional outcome (Freiburg monosyllable and HSM test), there was no significant difference between the two groups. In the otosclerose group in comparison with the standard group we measured increased impedances at the different time points. No statistically significant correlation was found between the increased impedances and the performance (Freiburg monosyllable) in the otosclerosis patients at the different time points. During the fittings, at least one electrode was deactivated in 36% of patients with otosclerosis compared to 30% in the control group. The phenomenon of facial stimulation was present in 25% of patients with otosclerosis versus 10% in the control group.

Conclusion Cochlear implantation is a safe and effective way of hearing rehabilitation in otosclerosis patients with corresponding hearing loss. Despite often altered anatomy of the cochlea, the functional outcome corresponds to that of the control group.

Poster-PDF A-1818.PDF

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020