Double posterior labyrinthotomy technique: results in three Med-El patients with common cavity.

HYPOTHESIS: This study reports on the use of the double posterior labyrinthotomy surgical technique and a custom-designed electrode to ensure better positioning of stimulating electrodes within the common cavity and thus demonstrate suitable outcomes in patients. BACKGROUND: Cochlear implantation has proven beneficial for numerous children with congenital malformations of the inner ear. Several studies show good auditory perception outcomes in children with common cavity. However, there have been risks involved with surgical techniques used in the actual implantation. These include possible aberrant facial nerve and the strong potential for a cerebrospinal fluid gusher. Improved surgical techniques and electrode design could allow for better electrode contact and avoid electrode placement in the internal auditory meatus. METHOD: The double posterior labyrinthotomy technique was carried out in three cases using a custom made MED-EL COMBI 40+ electrode. RESULTS: Surgery was carried out with no complications and is no more technically demanding than other standard surgical approaches. The speech processor program remains stable over time, and auditory perception results are similar to those obtained from children with no cochlear abnormalities. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate the success of the double posterior labyrinthotomy approach with modified cochlear implant, and this could be recommended as the procedure of choice in children presenting to an implant team with a common cavity.