Cochlear Implants Int. 2025 Nov 14:1-6. doi: 10.1080/14670100.2025.2583657. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Cochlear implantation (CI) is a highly effective intervention for severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, significantly improving auditory and speech outcomes. While generally safe, late-onset complications, particularly in pediatric recipients due to dynamic skull growth, can arise, necessitating comprehensive understanding and tailored management.
CASE PRESENTATION: We report an 11-year-old boy who received a CI at 26 months. Two years prior to presentation, he experienced localized inflammation at the implant site. More recently, he developed recurrent scalp wounds over the magnet and frequent device disconnections. High-resolution computed tomography revealed complete internal magnet dislodgment and significant deformation of the receiver antenna. Surgical exploration confirmed a dislocated magnet, extensive neo-osteogenesis encasing the antenna, and its irreversible deformation, while the electrode array remained intact. The complications were meticulously managed surgically, successfully preserving the existing device. Post-operative evaluations confirmed optimal placement, restored function, and improved auditory performance.
CONCLUSION: Identifying unique late-onset adverse events like magnet dislodgment and neo-osteogenesis may occur years after implantation. Surgical strategies, can preserve the existing implant, prevent complete device replacement, reduce patient morbidity and surgical risks, offer healthcare economic benefits, and result in timely management of these complex complications.
PMID:41236759 | DOI:10.1080/14670100.2025.2583657
