Neuromodulation and Cochlea Implant – possible?!

Abstract

Introduction: An increasing number of implants for neuromodulation like deep brain stimulation (DBS) in dystonia or Parkinson's disease or occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) in occipital neuralgia are implanted successfully by neurosurgeons. The cochlea implant (CI) remains the standard in hearing rehabilitation of severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss. A progressive number of patients will exist with the indication for a supply of both systems. Uncertainness is present in the counselling of patients concerning possible interference of both systems. Methods: We point out the possibilities of a CI implantation in a patient with a formerly implanted DBS system and the implantation of an ONS system in postoperative refractory occipital neuralgia after cochlea implant surgery with a retrospective chart analysis of two cases of our department. Results: Although using different strategies in stimulation (constant vs. intermittent stimulus, different pulse rates, amplitudes and pulse width) it is possible to have both implant types working within their specification and without interference in the combination DBS and CI as well as CI and ONS. Conclusions: The simultaneous supply of a patient with a CI and a neuromodulator system like DBS or ONS is a save treatment option and both systems are able to work within their specification without interference.