Can HIV-infected patients undergo cochlear implantation?

OBJECTIVE: HIV-infected patients have an increased risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss. Cochlear implantation can be a mean of rehabilitating such patients.

METHODS: A 36-year-old HIV-infected male with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss underwent cochlear implantation after exclusion of medical and radiological contraindications. The patient was followed up for 2 years to assess the audiological outcome.

RESULTS: After a follow up of 2 years, the patient has attained good functional results not experienced any complications. Conculsion: Cochlear implantation can restore hearing to HIV-infected patients with profound hearing loss due to cochlear impairment. This helps in both social and vocational rehabilitation and can improve the quality of life of such patients.