Perspective Chapter: Cochlear Implant Activation in the Immediate Postoperative Period at the Operating Room

Abstract

Cochlear implant (CI) activation usually takes place at about 30 days postoperative (PO). In our service, CI surgery is performed with local anesthesia and sedation, so Activation is possible with the patient’s cooperation, immediately after the CI surgery, still in the Operating Room (OR). The objective of this study was to provide the patient with hearing experience with the CI and to assess auditory perception immediately after surgery while still in the OR, and to compare Impedance Telemetry (IT), Neural Response Telemetry (NRT) and Comfort (C) level at two moments: in the OR and at the definitive Activation, approximately 30 days PO. Nine adults (12 ears) with acquired (post-lingual) deafness were included. Auditory perception was evaluated through Ling Sounds, musical instruments and clapping, presented in two different programming maps, elaborated using t-NRT, comparing between the two moments. We observed that while still in the OR, the patient can already present auditory detection and recognition responses. The values ​​of impedance, t-NRT and “C” level on both dates differed with statistical significance. We concluded that it is possible to provide the patient with an auditory experience with the CI immediately after surgery, and that the auditory experience and the values ​​of electrode IT, NRT and “C” level vary significantly between the two moments.