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Auditory brainstem implantation in primates: lessons for human surgery and application

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 March 2006

Manuel Manrique
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Francisco Cervera-Paz
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Isabel Jaúregui
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Vicente Vanaclocha
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Nicolás Pérez
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain

Abstract

We report on the surgical technique for surface electro-auditory prosthesis (EAP) implantation, pathological changes occurring at the cochlear nucleus complex (CNC), and its relation with electrical stimulation. Fourteen Macaca fascicularis were operated upon for a translabyrinthine bilateral auditory neurectomy, and simultaneous unilateral EAP implantation. Six animals were not stimulated, and the remaining eight were connected to an external active device. Stimulation was planned for 1000 hours. Biotolerance to the materials was adequate without significant reactions in the CNC surface, but an ependymal reaction. Lesions attributed to surgical trauma were also found. Two animals being stimulated could not complete the planned course due to cable break or EAP extrusion. One stimulated animal developed an asymptomatic brainstem abscess. A good knowledge of CNC topography is required to avoid surgical trauma. Externally connected devices may facilitate extrusion of the EAP or ascending infections.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Royal Society of Medicine Press Limited 2000

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