The Bonebridge active bone conduction system: a fast and safe technique for a middle fossa approach.

Abstract

The transmastoid pre-sigmoid approach is always the preferred choice for implantation of the Bonebridge active bone conduction system in patients with a normal anatomy. When an anatomical variant exists or a previous surgery has been performed, a retrosigmoid approach or middle fossa approach can be performed. The preferred surgical technique for a middle fossa approach is described. A 14 mm drill head (Neuro Drill) was used to create the bed at the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Surgical time and complication rate were analysed. The surgical time was shorter than 30 minutes in all cases, and only 14 seconds were needed to create a 14 mm bone bed. No complications were observed during the follow-up period (6-45 months). Use of the Neuro Drill for the middle fossa approach is an easy technique. It significantly decreases the surgical time, without increasing the complication rate.