Advantages of the use the endoscopy in cochlear implant.

Introduction: The goal of all surgery is the best results with the least possible damage to anatomical structures involved in the procedure. This premise has led in recent years to find methods that allow us to reduce the risks associated with surgery. In the case of cochlear implant surgery, in recent years many surgical techniques have been described. This paper presents our experience in cochlear implant surgery assisted with endoscopy. Objective: To describe the usefulness of the endoscopy in the classical approach to cochlear implant surgery Method: Retrospective study from September 2015 to January 2018 in the Sótero del Rio Hospital. During this period 49 surgeries were performed with this technique. All were evaluated previously with audiological and imaging studies. Surgery was performed with an anterior tympanomeatal flap, identifying the anatomy of the middle ear. Later mastoidectomy and posterior tympanotomy is made. One advantage of this technique is that the posterior tympanotomy is smaller. Once this process is completed, opening round window and inserting the electrode in the scala tympani is performed. Result: Endoscopic Assisted Cochlear Implant had no complications, 100% of the inserts were by round window into the scala tympani. In one patient with inner ear malformation (incomplete partition), it allowed detailed visualization of the middle ear. The same occurs in a patient with a bilateral cochlear fracture. In 4 patients with advanced otosclerosis, there was no problem in the approach to the round window or the insertion of the electrodes. There were no problems with the tympanomeatal or infections. Conclusion: The use of endoscopy seems a good tool with many advantages for cochlear implant surgery independent of alterations that may exist in both the middle ear and internal ear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]