Cholesteatoma complicating cochlear implantation

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Amina Mouzali and Omar Zemirli

Beni Messous Hospital, Algeria

: J Otol Rhinol

Abstract

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Objectives: Cholesteatoma is a rare and serious complication of cochlear implantation surgery. The objectives of this presentation are to report the incidence of cholesteatoma as a complication among our cochlear implanted patients, discuss its surgical management and review the literature. Material & Method: Retrospective review of 325 cochlear implantation surgeries performed in our department from June 2007 to December 2016. Three patients aged between 2 to 4 years at primary surgery were diagnosed with post-implantation cholesteatoma. Symptoms appeared in a delay ranging from 18 to 24 months following cochlear implantation. Otoscopy and CT scan findings were consistent with the diagnosis of cholesteatoma. Results: Revision surgery was performed. Intraoperatively a sac cholesteatoma into the mastoid cavity with posterior canal wall erosion were found. Surgical management consisted on removal of cholesteatoma and explantation with contralateral implantation for all the patients. At three years follow up, post revision otoscopy and CT scan findings do not reveal any recurrence of cholesteatoma. Conclusion: The occurrence of cholesteatoma in cochlear implanted patients is a challenge for the otologist. Several surgical options are reported and the decision to whether perform a single or a staged procedure depends on several factors. Revision surgery should ensure the complete removal of cholesteatoma, avoid recurrences and allow for safe cochlear implantation.

Biography

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Amina Mouzali is an Associate Professor in Otorhinolaryngology at Beni Messous Hospital of Algiers. She has graduated from Algiers University and has a Medical Doctorate degree, an Otorhinolaryngology Specialist degree and a Doctorate degree in Medical Science. Her primary clinical interest is otology, consisting on surgical and medical management of hearing, balance and facial nerve disorders. She is a Member of the Algerian National Cochlear Implantation Committee.

E-mail: amouzali@yahoo.fr