Cochlear Implantation and Facial Nerve Synkinesis in an Infant with Hypoplastic Internal Auditory Canals — A Case Report

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common finding in cases of the congenital internal acoustic canal (IAC) stenosis. Previous reports reveal a relationship between IAC stenosis and facial palsy as well as vestibular dysfunction. This case identifies a patient with bilateral profound SNHL, bilateral IAC stenosis, and temporary unilateral facial palsy who went on to receive bilateral cochlear implants (CI). The facial nerve synkinesis that was found in this patient with hypoplastic IACs occurred after a cochlear implant activation. The synkinesis was ipsilateral to prior transient facial palsy after salmonella infection. Patients with IAC stenosis and cochlear nerve hypoplasia may respond well to cochlear implantation, but caution should be used when considering CI with an emphasis on counseling for possible facial nerve complications.