Window of Opportunity: New time frame suggested for cochlear implant surgery in advanced otosclerosis

Dr. Merkus agreed that there is a role for MRI in these patients. Specifically, he recommends that an MRI be performed before planning a CI in all patients who have conditions that increase their risk for cochlear ossification, including meningitis, head trauma, autoimmune inner ear disease and otosclerosis.

Although ENT surgeons may debate the finer points of how best to diagnose and stage patients with advanced otosclerosis, the overall approach of his algorithm “is sound,” Dr. Merkus said. “By focusing on three key parameters, speech performance, CT classification and the extent of the air-bone gap, this tool can guide the surgeon towards the best treatment strategy for patients with this challenging condition,” he added.