Application of the Vibrant Soundbridge^® in bilateral congenital atresia in toddlers

Abstract

Conclusion: The Vibrant Soundbridge^® offers an excellent audiologic rehabilitation for toddlers with microtia and atresia. It provides direct stimulation of the cochlea and straightforward adaption to the given anatomical structures. The ‘posterior atresia incision’ preserves the physical integrity of the tissue layers around the ear remnant, which is essential for an aesthetic auricular reconstruction. Objectives: Patients with bilateral aural atresia require immediate auditory stimulation to ensure normal speech development. We present an operative technique that allows safe restoration of hearing before aesthetic reconstruction. Methods: A 6-year-old boy presented with bilateral microtia and osseous atresia. A hairline incision was performed through all layers and was followed by a subperiostal preparation towards the atresia plane. The fused malleus-incus-complex was removed and the transducer was crimped to the stapes suprastructure on both sides. Results: Speech performance is nearly normal in both quiet and noise conditions. The surgery did not affect the tissues that are important for the later ear reconstruction

Keywords::

• Auricular atresia
• auricular reconstruction
• implantable hearing aids

Acknowledgment

There was no external financial funding for this project. None of the authors has any financial interest (consultancies, stock ownership, or other equity interests, patent licensing arrangements, or payments for conducting or publicizing a study) in the products used or companies mentioned in this study.