RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the surgical and rehabilitative results of cochlear implantation combined with subtotal petrosectomy in patients with chronic otitis media. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of nine adult patients (7 men and 2 woman; mean age 58.9 years), who were operated between 2004 and 2014. Out of the nine, seven patients received simultaneous cochlear implantation and subtotal petrosectomy and two patients were operated by stage depending on the condition of the middle ear. All cases underwent closure of the external auditory canal and Eustachian tube, and the obliteration of mastoid cavity using abdominal fat. Surgical outcomes and performance of the patients after cochlear implantation were analyzed. RESULTS: Middle ear inflammation was completely managed with this surgical technique. No patients showed postoperative symptoms related to otitis media after the surgery. Cochlear implant was successfully replaced and active electrodes were fully inserted in all of the cases. There were no immediate complications including abscess, infection, meningitis, cerebrospinal fluid leakage and ear canal problem. One patient was observed with delayed extrusion of the ball electrode, which was replaced with cartilage reinforcement under local anesthesia. Patient performance, measured in terms of speech evaluation and quality of life during the medical interview, were successful and satisfactory. CONCLUSION: Cochlear implantation with subtotal petrosectomy seems to be very safe and effective for patients deafened by chronic otitis media. Long term follow-ups for possible extrusion of the electrode or other complications are still necessary.