Cochlear Implant Complications in Children: Libyan Scenario and Experience

cochlear implant (CI) is considered a safe procedure; however, complications may happen, either due to the presence of the implant itself which act as a foreign body or the presence of congenital anomalies of the ear. One hundred eighty-two children implanted by cochlear implant team in Specialty surgical center (SSC)/Benghazi-Libya between May 2012 to December 2021 were recruited in this study. Demographic data: about name, age and sex, vaccination history, audiological and radiological assessment in form of CT scan temporal bone and MRI brain, surgical procedure and any difficulties encountered during the operation, are recorded. Complications encountered were grouped as major and minor ones. one hundred eighty-two patients were studied; age range was from seventeen months to twelve years. The major complications that need hospitalization or surgical interventions were seen 3.29% whereas minor complications that do not need hospitalization but they resolve spontaneously or treated in out-patient department; accounts for 13.7%. Accidental trauma was the major risk factor that seen in both major and minor complications. Cochlear implantation in children continues to be reliable and safe in experienced hands, with a low percentage of severe complications as long as long-term medical follow up is there. Major Complications of CI in children in SSC are related to trauma and hematoma formation as a major factor.