Fuel for the Processor: Our Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Cochlear implant centers providing audiological and habilitation support to their implantees are also obligated to offer prompt and accessible equipment maintenance. Aim of the Study: To evaluate and compare the number of accessories requiring replacement by the different processors of the three major cochlear implant manufacturers: Advanced Bionics, Cochlear, and MED-EL. Type of Study: Retrospective. Materials and Methods: An analysis of the inventory of accessories required and used by 218 recipients supported by our center for a period of 3 years from 2010 to 2013 was done. These data were statistically analyzed for each manufacturer. Results: Eleven accessories provided by the manufacturer were replaced regularly by implantees over 3 years. Cables were the most frequently replaced accessory. Magnets were the least commonly replaced accessory. MED-EL implantees needed the maximum replacements as compared to implantees of the other two companies. Conclusion: Preimplant counseling regarding choice of any device usually includes technical details, esthetics, cost of the device, and expected outcomes. Maintenance of the device is often overlooked and becomes a major challenge for patients of lower socioeconomic strata of society. This study will enable clinics to give information regarding the sustainability of the device to the implantee, and the family which will definitely have an impact on better utilization of the device and better outcomes.