Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a rare otological condition with potential for dire outcomes including permanent hearing loss. Although the majority of cases are deemed idiopathic, bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss represents a rare subset typically related to systemic conditions, with higher morbidity and mortality. A controversial association with acute otitis media has been reported, with few bilateral cases published in the literature.

A very rare case of bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss associated with acute otitis media is described, with a review of the literature.

The limited evidence available suggests that acute otitis media with tinnitus and/or bacterial pathology may have an increased risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, which is consistent with the case described. Although there is no sufficiently powered published evidence to provide definitive treatment guidelines, the literature reviewed suggests that early myringotomy and antibiotics may greatly improve treatment outcomes.

To describe problems and complications associated with cochlear implantation, and their management, in a Danish patient population comprising both paediatric and adult patients.

Retrospective chart review.

Tertiary referral centre.

Three hundred and thirteen consecutive cochlear implantations were studied. The median age of the study population was 10 years. Sixty per cent of patients were children and 40 per cent were adult; 52 per cent were female and 48 per cent were male.

Two hundred and ninety-four patients received a Cochlear Nucleus® implant. The remaining 19 received an Advanced Bionics implant.

Presence of problems and complications after cochlear implantation.

Post-operative complications were found in 15.7 per cent of patients. The majority of these complications (11.2 per cent) were minor; 4.5 per cent were major. The major complications included one patient with meningitis, one patient with multiple antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection of a radical cavity, and one diabetic patient who developed a severe skin infection and whose implant became exposed.

Cochlear implantation is a safe procedure within the studied setting. However, it is essential that careful attention be paid to surgical planning and technique, and it is important that healthcare staff and patients be aware of the possible problems and complications.