Cochlear implant in the child under two years of age: skull growth, otitis media, and selection.

Early cochlear implantation is desirable to effect maximal development of receptive and expressive language. Factors to consider in implanting before the age of 2 years include anatomic considerations, temporal bone growth and device extrusion or migration, the sequela of otitis media, and the accuracy of early diagnosis. Clinical experience and laboratory data indicate that cochlear implantation before the age of 2 years is possible.