Cochlear implantation procedure steps

Generally, a cochlear implant is an electronic device that converts sound into coded electrical signals through an external speech processor. Cochlear implantation refers to the surgical procedure of implanting the device into a patient's body. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Place the patient in a supine position with a pillow under the shoulder and administer general anesthesia.

2. Disinfect the head and neck area and drape with sterile towels.

3. Make a curved incision in the skin behind the auricle.

4. Dissect tissue from the curved incision to expose the anterior and posterior bony surfaces, and outline the mastoid.

5. Use a diamond burr and cutting burr to open the lateral aspect of the middle ear cavity (tympanotomy) and grind out a bony trough for the receiver/stimulator.

6. Use a cutting burr to create a small opening in the round window membrane, then insert the electrode of the cochlear implant.

7. After implantation, control any bleeding and suture and dress the wound.

8. Dry the patient’s head and neck, help them get dressed, and conclude the surgery.

After cochlear implantation, the device should not be activated until the postauricular wound has fully healed. To ensure proper surgical standards, it is recommended to undergo the procedure at a qualified medical institution under the guidance of a professional physician.