An overview of risk factors, management and prevention of cochlear implant infections

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of reviewWith cochlear implantation becoming increasingly performed worldwide, an understanding of the risk factors, preventive measures, and management of cochlear implant (CI) infection remains important given the significant morbidity and cost it conveys.Recent findingsAt the turn of the 21st century there was a decrease in rates of CI infection, particularly meningitis, following the discontinuation of positioner use for CI. However, in more recent years rates of CI infection have remained largely static. Recently, studies evaluating preventive measures such as pneumococcal vaccination, S. aureus decolonization and surgical antibiotic prophylaxis have emerged in the literature.SummaryPrompt recognition of CI infection and appropriate investigation and management are key, however at present treatment is largely informed by cohort and case-control studies and expert opinion. Preventive measures including pneumococcal vaccination, S. aureus decolonization and preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis play a role in reducing rates of CI infection. However, there remains a need for well designed clinical trials to provide higher level evidence to better guide preventive measures for, and management decisions of, CI infections in the future.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)220-225
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Opinion in Infectious Diseases
Volume37
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2024

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