OBJECTIVE: We report on our experience in cochlear implantation in patients with radical mastoidectomy cavities. Study Design, Setting, and Methods: Retrospectively, records of patients from the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Parma between December 1991 and March 2000 were reviewed, and 6 postlingually deafened adults who received a cochlear implant in a radical cavity were identified. Speech performances were evaluated in terms of bisyllabic word and sentence recognition and common phrase comprehension. RESULTS: To date, with a follow-up of 1 to 9 years, no patient has experienced extrusion of electrodes or other local or intracranial complications. Mean bisyllabic word and sentence recognition scores were 74% and 80%, respectively. Mean comprehension score for common phrases was 86%. CONCLUSION: By obliterating and isolating the radical mastoidectomy cavity from the outer environment, patients who previously had undergone radical surgery of the middle ear can be safely implanted with satisfactory hearing results.
OBJECTIVE: We report on our experience in cochlear implantation in patients with radical mastoidectomy cavities. Study Design, Setting, and Methods: Retrospectively, records of patients from the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Parma between December 1991 and March 2000 were reviewed, and 6 postlingually deafened adults who received a cochlear implant in a radical cavity were identified. Speech performances were evaluated in terms of bisyllabic word and sentence recognition and common phrase comprehension. RESULTS: To date, with a follow-up of 1 to 9 years, no patient has experienced extrusion of electrodes or other local or intracranial complications. Mean bisyllabic word and sentence recognition scores were 74% and 80%, respectively. Mean comprehension score for common phrases was 86%. CONCLUSION: By obliterating and isolating the radical mastoidectomy cavity from the outer environment, patients who previously had undergone radical surgery of the middle ear can be safely implanted with satisfactory hearing results.