The effects of cochlear implantation on vestibular function in 1-4 years old children.

OBJECTIVES Although cochlear implants offer an effective hearing restoration option in children with severe to profound hearing loss, concern continues to exist regarding the possible effects of cochlear implantation on the vestibular system and balance. METHODS In a prospective cohort study, 27 children with bilateral profound hearing loss (all candidates for cochlear implantation) were evaluated for their vestibular function before and after cochlear implantation. Vestibular evaluations consisted of Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials, caloric testing and the Head-Impulse Test. RESULTS Mean age at the time of cochlear implantation was 27.19 months. Without considering vestibular evaluation results, one of the ears was selected for surgery. Vestibular tests after surgery were not indicative of any statistically significant change in vestibular system or balance. CONCLUSION This limited data shows that cochlear implantation did not impair the vestibular system of these patients. By the results of our study we may conclude that round window implantation does not have any disturbing impact on vestibular function in children. The generalization of this result needs further research.