What is the role of preoperative imaging for cochlear implants in adults with postlingual deafness?

BACKGROUND Computed tomographies (CTs) and magnetic resonance imagings (MRIs) have been traditionally used to evaluate cochlear implant (CI) candidates. The utility of preoperative imaging in pediatric CI candidates is well documented because anatomic abnormalities can alter surgical planning in up to 20% of cases. However, the utility of preoperative imaging is yet to be determined in adult CI candidates with postlingual deafness. Today, institutional protocols and surgeon preference determine the preoperative radiographic evaluation. But there is no consensus on when and which imaging modality should be employed to assess adult CI candidates with postlingual deafness.