Unexpected exit of a cochlear implant electrode through the wall of the basal turn of the cochlea - a report on two patients.

We describe the unusual complication of the cochlear implant electrode eroding through the lateral bony wall of the cochlear basal turn in 2 different patients. This complication, occurring during life, has not been previously described in the literature. Radiological investigations were vital in making this diagnosis. We also discuss the likely pathophysiology behind this complication. Copyright (c) 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.