Epicutaneous patch test--a new diagnostic option to prevent the rejection of silicone-covered cochlear implants in children

Abstract

Objectives: Cochlear implantation (CI) is a revolutionary method for hearing rehabilitation in patients with severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss. One of the surgical complications may be the necrosis of the skin flap above the receiver-stimulator coil, resulting in device extrusion. Our aim was to find the plausible causes of the silicone covered implant rejection.

Patients and methods: Authors present four cases of cochlear implant rejection, briefly describe their dermato-surgical solutions and analyse their innovative method - the epicutanoeus patch testing with silicone samples.

Results: They observed positive skin reaction in three of the four cases.

Conclusion: Authors analyse the applicability and results of their surgical solutions and the epicutaneous testing in connection with the prevention of skin flap necrosis and rejection of silicone-covered cochlear implants.

Keywords: Cochlear implantation; Epicutaneous patch test; Loco-regional skin flaps; Skin flap necrosis; Surgical complication.