OBJECTIVETo explore the problems and describe clinical experiences associated with multichannel cochlear implantation in patients with cochlear ossification.

METHODSSeven cochlear implant cases with bilateral cochlear ossification from 1996 to 2006 in Beijing Tongren Hospital were retrospectively reviewed, 4 of which were the consequence of meningitis. Three patients' cochlear were completely ossified, 1 patient's tympanic scala was completely ossified, 1 patient's cochlear was partially ossified, and 2 patients' cochlear were partially fibrotic. This article addressed the components of the preoperative evaluation, surgical decision-making, and specific techniques for cochlear implant array insertion in all kinds of ossified cochlea.

RESULTSGusher was found in 1 case but less serious than that with inner ear malformations. The electrodes were inserted in the cochleostomy in full length in 4 cases, 1 case gave up, and the cochlear implant array were partially inserted in the remains. No serious complications occurred after implantation. All patients had auditory sensations. The impedance of the electrodes, the T level, C level and the hearing threshold were slightly higher than that of the normal cochlear implantation.

CONCLUSIONSThe key influencing factor of ossified cochlear patients were the degree of the disease and whether the electrode implanted completely or not. So, the profound sensorineural hearing loss patients after meningitis should be paid more attention. Patients with ossified cochlear could be benefit from cochlear implantation.