Cochlear implant fixation using resorbable mesh

In this article we describe a new method of cochlear implant receiver-stimulator fixation using a resorbable poly (D,L) lactic acid mesh. We conducted a retrospective case review at a tertiary referral center; 10 pediatric and 4 adult patients had undergone cochlear implantation during the period from February to October 2008. Resorbable poly (D,L) lactic acid mesh and pins were used for fixation of the cochlear implant receiver stimulator. The receiver stimulator was assessed for stability/migration, and the scalp flap/incision were evaluated for allergic reactions, infections, and healing problems. With an average follow-up of17.2 months, no patients had migration of the receiver stimulator, and there was no evidence of infection, wound dehiscence, or allergic reaction. Early results indicate that fixation of a cochlear implant receiver stimulator using resorbable mesh is well tolerated and provides good stability without device migration. Resorbable mesh fixation of the receiver stimulator is a reasonable alternative technique for cochlear implantation.