OBJECTIVETo investigate the technique of the suprameatal approach for cochlear implantation in Chinese profound sensory hearing loss children.

METHODSSuprameatal approach for cochlear implantation were used in 50 cases (total 53 ears) with profound sensory hearing loss from May 2005 to January 2007. The electrode was passed through the suprameatal tunnel and went between the incus and chorda tympani into the scala tympani.

RESULTSElectrodes were completely inserted in 51 ears. There were no postoperative complications in all cases. Although the long effect need to be observed, all cases received better hearing and speech development benefit from cochlear implantation in the follow-up period. Among the 50 cases, 26 had speech perception in the open condition; 18 patients could speak short sentences although not clearly; and 6 patients learned to speak individual words only.

CONCLUSIONSThe suprameatal approach was found to be a simple and safe technique that does not need mastoidectomy and avoid endangering the facial nerve and the chorda tympani. It enables wide exposure of middle ear and is especially suitable for cases with narrow facial recess or anteriorly located facial nerve.