Pediatric Cochlear Implants

In this episode, pediatric otolaryngologist Dr. Prashant Malhotra and our hosts discuss hearing evaluations, pediatric cochlear implants, surgery considerations for patients with inner ear malformations, and patient/family education.

To start, Dr. Malhotra describes how pediatric cochlear implantation candidates present to him in terms of age and test results. He guides us through his diagnostic workup, which includes a questionnaire, physical exam, imaging, CMV IgG test, connexin test, and next-generation genetic sequencing. Dr. Malhotra also describes collaboration between otolaryngologists, audiologists, and social workers within his multidisciplinary cochlear implant center.

Next, we cover cochlear implantation in children with inner ear malformations, such as CHARGE syndrome and EVA syndrome. These cases present the challenge of abnormal cochleas and higher CSF pressure. Dr. Malhotra also discusses treatment considerations for patients with single-sided deafness and post-lingual deafness. Additionally, he discusses long-term complications of cochlear implants. Complications can include pain, vertigo, acute otitis media (OM) episodes, and meningitis.

Finally, we expand our discussion to encompass patient and family education. This last segment covers topics such as childhood vaccination awareness, benefits of early hearing screenings, management of family expectations, and tracking academic milestones in pediatric cochlear implantation patients.