Surgery Information
The surgery typically takes one to three hours. General anesthesia is administered. First, an incision is made behind the ear to expose the temporal bone. The surgeon then positions the implant component against the bone. A hole is made in the temporal bone with a microscopic drill, allowing the surgeon access to the cochlea. A small hole is made in the wall of the cochlea and the electrode array is gently guided into the cochlea. The internal receiver is secured in place on the skull bone with sutures and the incision is closed. A sterile dressing is placed on the incision.
Most people stay overnight for observation. This is a relatively low risk surgery, however there are some risks. The most common complication is problems with the wound healing. Less common risks include damage to the nerve that moves the face on the side of the operation, leakage of the fluid around the brain (cerebrospinal fluid), infection of the fluid around the brain (meningitis), temporary dizziness (vertigo), and failure of the device to work.