Cochlear implantation under local anesthesia and conscious sedation: an Italian experience

ConclusionLocal anesthesia with conscious sedation is a safe and effective alternative for cochlear implant candidates considered unfit for general anesthesia. Fundamental for a successful procedure are preoperative counselling, accurate selection of the patients and constant intraoperative assistance. Unfeasibility of facial nerve monitoring and minor detrimental effect on training are the principal disadvantages in performing cochlear implantation under local anesthesia.
Source: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Category: ENT & OMF Source Type: research