Subdural haematoma as a rare complication of cochlear implantation: case report and literature review

Objective: To report a case of subdural haematoma occurring as an extremely rare and life-threatening complication of cochlear implantation, and to explore the causative association between intracranial haemorrhage and cochlear implantation surgical techniques. This association has not previously been reviewed in depth. Case report: A three-year-old boy was diagnosed with a large subdural haematoma, one week after cochlear implantation. After emergency evacuation of the haematoma, the patient made an excellent recovery and was discharged from hospital without any neurological deficit. Results: Mechanisms of injury are discussed and the literature reviewed, focusing on the possible causes of intracranial haemorrhage identified after cochlear implantation. Notably, bone drilling had been used in all reported cases, and the probable causative injury had always occurred after such drilling. Conclusion: The issue of bone drilling during cochlear implantation is raised, and alternative methods of implant housing suggested, in order to avoid intracranial haemorrhage.