Cochlear Implantation Following Explorative Tympanotomy in Patients With Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Surgical Features and Audiological Outcomes.

Performing CI after preceding ExT, connective tissue has to be expected blocking the round window niche. Remaining tissue can be removed safely and does not alter the round window membrane allowing for a proper electrode insertion. Short- and long-term hearing results are satisfactory. Consequently, ExT with sealing of the round window membrane in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss does not impede subsequent CI that can still be performed safely.