Active and Adequate Exposure of the Facial Nerve and Chorda Tympani Nerve to Improve the Safety of Cochlear Implantation

Abstract

Background: The posterior tympanum approach of cochlear implantation is easy to damage the facial nerve and cord tympanic nerve. Therefore, we need to improve the safety of cochlear implantation. Objectives: To discuss the safety and feasibility of active and adequate transparent exposure of the facial nerve and chorda tympani nerve during the surgery. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on all 945 patients who underwent cochlear implantation from January 2011 to September 2017. All patients have been followed up for 14 months to 5 years postoperatively and postoperative complications have been observed. Results: All 945 patients received artificial cochlear implantation. The facial nerves of 76 cases were above the horizontal semicircular canal plane, while narrow facial recess was observed in 44 cases. Serious chorda tympani nerve variation was found in 1 case. No facial paralysis and facial nerve irritation and abnormal taste occurred after operation. Conclusions: Cochlear implantation with initiative and adequate exposure of facial nerve and the chorda tympani nerve can improve the safety of the cochlear implant surgery. Our study provide a safe and effective method for clinical cochlear implantation to reduce facial nerve and tympanic cord nerve injury.