A new minimal approach in cochlear implant surgery: the Colombian experience.

Abstract

To implement a minimal invasive approach in cochlear implant surgery for children and adults. In order to decrease surgical complications and morbidity with the surgery. During a 1-year period, 12 consecutive patients (5 female and 7 male; age range, 1.5 to 78 years; mean age, 14.5 years), who had cochlear implantation (1 Nucleus and 11 Clarion) through a new surgical approach, were prospectively evaluated. The surgical approach was accomplished in all the patients with no major complications. The mean surgical time was 3.2 hours and the mean time between surgery and process of programming was 2.7 weeks. The surgical trauma and postoperatory edema was decreased and allowed programming of the implant in a shorter period of time.