Outpatient cochlear implantation in the pediatric population

Abstract

Studies have shown that the incidence of complications in pediatric cochlear implant surgery is related to the age of the child, with a higher complication rate in younger patients. Consequently, many surgeons advocate admitting these children overnight. We began our pediatric cochlear implant program starting in June 1991 using the Nucleus 22-channel cochlear implant. To date, 65 children have undergone implantation, all on an outpatient basis. To evaluate safety, complication rate, and patient satisfaction, we gave the parents of the patients a questionnaire survey to complete. All patient charts were also retrospectively reviewed. More than 90% of parents surveyed responded that they were satisfied with the outpatient treatment of their children. There were no perioperative complications or read-missions. Cochlear implantation can be safely and effectively performed on an outpatient basis without an increase in morbidity. Day surgery reduces hospital costs at least $2500. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2000;122:19–22.)