Post-operative problems and complications in 313 consecutive cochlear implantations.

OBJECTIVE

To describe problems and complications associated with cochlear implantation, and their management, in a Danish patient population comprising both paediatric and adult patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary referral centre.

SUBJECTS

Three hundred and thirteen consecutive cochlear implantations were studied. The median age of the study population was 10 years. Sixty per cent of patients were children and 40 per cent were adult; 52 per cent were female and 48 per cent were male.

INTERVENTION

Two hundred and ninety-four patients received a Cochlear Nucleus implant. The remaining 19 received an Advanced Bionics implant.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Presence of problems and complications after cochlear implantation.

RESULTS

Post-operative complications were found in 15.7 per cent of patients. The majority of these complications (11.2 per cent) were minor; 4.5 per cent were major. The major complications included one patient with meningitis, one patient with multiple antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection of a radical cavity, and one diabetic patient who developed a severe skin infection and whose implant became exposed.

CONCLUSION

Cochlear implantation is a safe procedure within the studied setting. However, it is essential that careful attention be paid to surgical planning and technique, and it is important that healthcare staff and patients be aware of the possible problems and complications.