Rapid cochlear implantation is important for deafness after meningitis!
Meningitis is a dangerous disease whose possible complications include deafness. Prompt cochlear implantation can then restore hearing.
Meningitis refers to the inflammation of the conjunctiva that surrounds the central nervous system in the brain - "meninges" - and in the spinal cord - "meninges". Depending on the cause and the general state of health of the person affected, meningitis can be life-threatening. You should therefore seek medical help immediately if you suspect meningitis!
However, even with otherwise successful treatment, permanent neurological damage can occur. This includes hearing damage and even deafness.
Do cochlear implants help after meningitis?
Other neurological sequelae of meningitis can hardly be rehabilitated, if at all. However, a deaf ear can regain hearing thanks to a cochlear implant, or CI for short.
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However, meningitis also often leads to ossification of the cochlea: the cavity of the cochlea, which otherwise only contains endolymph - a fluid - fills with a mass that takes on the consistency of bone tissue. During a cochlear implantation, however, the electrode that is to stimulate the auditory nerve must be inserted into this cavity in the cochlea. If it is ossified, this is no longer possible.
If you or your child are deaf as a result of a meningeal decision, you should therefore make a quick decision regarding implantation! This way you can prevent the threat of ossification. There have been very positive experiences with the prompt fitting of a cochlear implant following meningitis: Those affected report excellent success in hearing and speech comprehension with the CI.
Can cochlear implantation cause meningitis?
Any open wound from an operation or injury makes it easier for bacteria to enter the body in the short term. This also includes bacteria that are potential triggers of meningitis.
In connection with cochlear implants, pneumococci have been cited as a trigger for meningitis in the past[1], but a simple vaccination can eliminate this risk. Atraumatic CI electrodes, such as those used by the Austrian CI manufacturer MED-EL, could also reduce the potential risk.
So if you are considering cochlear implantation, you can look forward to your new hearing with CI without the worry!
[1] Scientific justification for the change in the recommendation on the indication vaccination against pneumococci, Robert Koch Institute, Epidemiological Bulletin No. 36 p. 351ff, September 8, 2014
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