High-resolution computerized tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in preoperative evaluation of cochlear implant patients

Abstract

Context Preoperative cross-sectional imaging evaluation of cochlear implant patients is critically important in deciding whether the patient is suitable for implantation and in choosing the side of implantation. Aims The aim of this prospective study was to determine the incidence of structural cochlear anomalies in patients with congenital profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, who were being evaluated for the feasibility of cochlear implantation. Settings and design This was a prospective observational nonrandomized study. Patients and methods A total of 26 patients with congenital profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, who were being evaluated for feasibility of cochlear implantation were included in this study. These patients were evaluated with high-resolution computerized tomography of the temporal bone and MRI for incidence of structural cochlear anomalies. Results The incidence of structural cochlear anomalies, excluding cochlear nerve aplasia, in patients with congenital profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, who were being evaluated for the feasibility of cochlear implantation was 50%. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of preoperative radiological scanning in the assessment of patients undergoing cochlear implantation. It provides vital information on cochlear status and in ruling out noncochlear causes where cochlear implantation is not feasible or contraindicated.