“How i do it” — Otology and neurotology: A specific issue and its solution: Mastoidotomy tympanotomy approach for cochlear implantation

Since the advent of cochlear implantation, the classic surgical technique has been the posterior tympanotomy or facial recess approach. A posterior canal groove method has also been used successfully for some device.
In our temporal bone laboratory, we developed a technique which we term " the mastoidectomy tympanotomy approach". We have used this method since April 1986 in six Symbiont, one Nucleus, one 3M House, and one 3M multielectrode/multichannel device.
V. Müller has built two instruments for us: the electrode guide and the nonaerated babe alligator forceps. These instruments are extremely useful and are recommended for proper insertion; they are, however, not essential.
We are well aware that there is no single best technique for cochlear implantation. In order to achieve a safe and efficient surgical purpose, different surgeons might elect different but equally valid approaches. We are describing a method that works well for us and that we feel could be useful to others.