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.