Symptom Timeline Preceding Cochlear Implant Failure

Abstract

There were common patterns when evaluating both medical and device failures. By recognizing patterns of symptoms that may indicate probable implant failure, otolaryngologists can better counsel patients on what to expect with their implants when they present with certain symptoms.

Pain in cochlear implant recipients: An uncommon, yet serious, consequence of cochlear implantation

“…13 Roby et al report three cases of "vague discomfort/pain" among 19 patients having reimplantation for soft failure. 15 In a study by Buchman et al, 84% of their soft failure cases complained of "aversive nonauditory symptoms." 22 The authors did not report whether these were present when the external magnet and processor were not used, as in our patients.…”

“…Roby et al describe 10 patients who presented with pain over the implant site and eventually developed infection. 15 All patients needed reimplantation by 11 months from presentation. Biofilm formation on the cochlear implant is another reason for concern.…”

Rates of revision and device failure in cochlear implant surgery: A 30‐year experience

“…These are similar findings to other large volume clinics, which also found device failure was the most common indication. The analysis of 128 revision surgeries by Roby et al 4 indicated that 60% of revision surgeries were performed for device failure. Similarly, Cullen et al 5 reported device failure as being the most common indication for revision surgery in their series of 107 revision cases.…”

“…[1][2][3] Previous publications have characterized revision surgery but are limited in their detail due to low case number, focus on children, or limited case analysis. The largest reported series by Roby et al 4 reviewed 128 revision surgeries. Although the number was substantial, the analysis was limited to the symptoms preceding revision surgery.…”

The effect of cochlear implantation on tinnitus in patients with bilateral hearing loss: A systematic review

“…The induction of tinnitus occurs in 1% to 5% of patients according to recent studies describing the complications following cochlear implantation. 3,4 Most studies that report on the effect of cochlear implantation on tinnitus have been published in the last decade. However, a current systematic review of the literature following evidenced-based medicine (EBM) principles is still lacking.…”