Surgical Technique

Question 1

What approach is used to expose the basal Scalia tympani for insertion of the electrode array?

Answer 1

Transmastoid facial recess approach

Question 2

Where is the implant typically located on the pt?

Answer 2

Btw 45 and 60 degrees to the temporal line

Question 3

For the incision, some surgeons choose to inject?

Answer 3

Local anesthetic with epinephrine

Question 4

Incision location should consider the following:

Answer 4

1. Implant must not lie under pinna
2. Incision line should be at least 1.5 cm away from implant
3. Scalp incision should be kept within hair line
4. Length and location of incision

Question 5

What is yhe range of the incision (determined by surgeon)?

Answer 5

4-6 mm long (minimal) to 15 cm (conventional)

Question 6

The receiver pkg should be placed a minimum of _____ from the posterior external auditory canal wall?

Answer 6

3.5 cm

Question 7

What scalp flap thickness should be maintained?

Answer 7

5mm

Should not exceed 7mm

Question 8

What type of electro cautery must not be used once implant is placed in sterile operative field?

Answer 8

Monopolar

Question 9

What must be considered before using a minimal incision approach ?

Answer 9

Skin flap thickness is not greater than 7mm over magnet telemetry coil

Question 10

What are the two ways to avoid static build up when removing implant from inner package?

Answer 10

1. Slowly open outer tray pkg and lift out sterile tray pkg
   Flood entire sterile tray pkg with saline and slowly lift top cover off sterile tray
   Remove plastic lid from sterile tray
2. Place inner sterile tray in bath of sterile saline
   Slowly lift top of tray off to open pkg