Contraindications to cochlear implantation.

Cochlear implantation is still a controversial surgical procedure because its results in providing hearing for the deaf patient are far from ideal. The possible benefits of implantation should be carefully weighed against the complications that might arise. Many individuals with profound deafness are candidates for this procedure; however, there are some patients who are not. Contraindications to cochlear implantation, absolute and relative, systemic and local, are discussed. The surgeon's decision to withhold surgery is based on these contraindications.