A 5-year-old child with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss is evaluated for cochlear implantation. Which of the following is an absolute contraindication to cochlear implantation?
- A Cochlear nerve aplasia confirmed on MRI ✓
- B Labyrinthine ossification following meningitis
- C Bilateral cochlear malformation (Mondini deformity)
- D Age less than 6 months
Correct answer: A. Cochlear nerve aplasia confirmed on MRI
Explanation
Cochlear nerve aplasia (absent cochlear nerve on high-resolution MRI) is an absolute contraindication to cochlear implantation because the prosthesis requires an intact auditory nerve to transmit electrical signals centrally. Labyrinthine ossification after meningitis requires drilling and is a relative difficulty, not a contraindication. Mondini deformity and young age are not absolute contraindications.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.