OBJECTIVE: To report surgical results and complications of cochlear implantation in patients with far-advanced otosclerosis (FAO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of surgical results in terms of electrode insertion as well as peri- and postoperative complications. Ten cochlear implantations (CIs) were performed in eight patients with FAO. A prior stapedotomy had been performed in all cases.

RESULTS: Full electrode insertion was achieved in nine of the 10 operations (90%) and partial insertion in one operation. An unintended opening of the vestibule during drilling was the only perioperative complication. Postoperative complications occurred as two cases of vertigo (one prolonged). No chorda tympani syndrome and no cases of facial nerve stimulation were noted.

CONCLUSION: Although based on a limited number of cases, we conclude that full electrode insertion can be achieved in almost all cases and that major complications are infrequent in CI in patients with FAO. Postoperative vertigo appears to be the most commonly occurring complication.