Infections following cochlear implantation

Abstract

Cochlear implantation has become routine in the management of children and adults with profound sensorineural hearing loss. In rare cases postoperative infections necessitate removal of the implant. We present six such cases that have been managed within our programme. Extensive infected granulation tissue was found around the implant at exploration despite prolonged intravenous treatment with appropriate antimicrobial agents. All devices were explanted and three have been reimplanted at our unit. We discuss our management of these cases, the need for explantation, consideration for reimplantation and their functional outcome following reimplantation. We also highlight how systemic inflammatory markers can be unhelpful in detecting significant infection surrounding a cochlear implant.

Bacterial infection complications in children with cochlear implants in the Czech Republic

“…Concomitantly, systemic inflammatory markers can be unhelpful in detecting a significant infection localized around the cochlear implant [3]. If therapy therefore is directed towards preventing bacterial colonisation of the implant surfaces, it must be initiated immediately, precisely, and intravenously at high doses.…”

Significance and current approaches to vascular graft infection

“…It is a known fact that any implant placed in the human body is susceptible to presenting complications immediately after the intervention, of whatever type, or during the follow-up of the patient, that is, during his/her lifespan. This is an old story and may eventually develop at any patient age and, as said, after any type of implant [ 1 , 2 ]. Antibiotic prophylaxis before any implant is currently accepted as routine surgical practice.…”