Having a Cochlear Implant : Surgery
Cochlear implant surgery is carried out on an inpatient basis and usually
involves a 2-3 day stay in hospital. Surgery is required to embed a receiver/stimulator
package into a cavity drilled in the mastoid bone and to insert an electrode
array into the cochlea. In theatre device function and hearing responses
are evaluated by a clinical physicist. A planar x-ray is taken to check
the position of the electrode array prior to discharge.
A pressure bandage is usually worn for 1 week and it is useful if implantees bring nightwear with front fastenings. Individual arrangements are made for checking the wound. Dissolvable sutures are normally used for children and no stitches need be removed.
The risks associated with cochlear implant surgery are the same as those
associated with any other major operation and general anaesthetic. Many
are the same as when you get your tonsils and adenoids removed.
For patients travelling from a distance, accommodation is available for
their immediate family within the hospital grounds free of charge. In the
case of children, a parent will also be required to stay in the ward with
their child.
Hearing is not restored immediately after surgery. A period of about 4 weeks is required to allow the implant site to heal and to allow any swelling or tenderness to subside, before the external parts can be issued. An appointment for ‘switch on’ will usually be issued prior to discharge from the hospital. The wound must be kept totally dry i.e.; no hair washing and no swimming until this appointment. Most adults are fit to return to work within 4 weeks and children can return to nursery or school within this period, but care should be taken to minimise the risk of infection and bumps to the head.