The Effect of Cochlear Implantation on Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential in Children

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: We conducted this study to assess the effects of unilateral cochlear implantation (CI) on otolith function by observing the changes in ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) in children. Study Design: Prospective case series. METHODS: The oVEMP and cVEMP elicited by air‐conducted sound in 35 children were analyzed preoperatively and at 5 days, 1 month, and 2 months after surgery. RESULTS: Before CI, the response rates of oVEMPs and cVEMPs were 81.4% and 91.4%, respectively. In the implanted side, oVEMPs and cVEMPs were reduced by 37.1% and 68.6%, respectively, 5 days after CI. One month after CI, oVEMPs and cVEMPs were 34.6% and 72%, respectively, with the device switched off, and 50% and 73.1%, respectively, with the device switched on. Two months after CI, the oVEMPs and cVEMPs were 36% and 80%, respectively, when the implant was turned off, and 70.8% and 75%, respectively, when the implant was turned on. CONCLUSIONS: The study confirmed the value of VEMP testing in the clinical setting and that absent VEMPs could indicate impairment of otolith function after CI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 2020