Flap Outcome Using “C” Shaped and “New” Incisions in Pediatric Cochlear Implantation

BACKGROUND: Skin flap failure is a significant, though relatively uncommon complication of cochlear implant surgery. To achieve a good surgical result, a proper plan to locate the prospective implant is required. Thus, a new design of flap was evaluated in this regard. METHODS: Two hundred and eleven consecutive children undergoing cochlear implantation in Baqiyatallah Cochlear Implant Center were compared with 75 cases who were operated through the classic “C shaped” fashion from Jul/14/2007 to Feb/14/2009. RESULTS: There was one case of flap necrosis in the classic approach but there were no major flap complications in “new” design, also keloid formation as a minor complication was rare in the “new” method. CONCLUSION: The “new” design is easier to apply with fewer complications, so it can be recommended in children undergoing cochlear implantation.