Surgical technique and complications of paediatric cochlear implantation

Introduction: Cochlear implantation has been performed in children since 19 80, with thousands of children already implanted. The incidence of complica tions is around 7 to 10% in the literature. Methods: This is a retrospective study of all children receiving a cochlear implant at the Hospital for Sick Children over 9 years. Surgical technique and outcome are analysed. Results: There were 7 complications, all successfully treated, and involvin g no further consequences. 4 reimplantations were performed for device fail ure. Discussion: Paediatric cochlear implantation is associated with a low incid ence of complications. In this series, no complications were encountered on reimplantation.