Hearing and language development in the first two patients with auditory brainstem implant who were implanted in the Czech Republic at Motol and Homolka University Hospital

Czech version

Authors: L. Bauer ¹; Z. Aksenovová ¹; M. Myslíková ¹; O. Pospíšilová ¹; Z. Levá ¹; A. Vlasák ²; Z. Čada ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Klinika ušní, nosní a krční 2. LF UK a FN Motol a Homolka, Praha ¹; Neurochirurgická klinika dětí a dospělých 2. LF UK a FN Motol a Homolka, Praha ²
Published in: Otorinolaryngol Foniatr, 75, 2026, No. Ahead of Print, pp. 1-5.
Category: Letter to Editor
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccorl2026-024

Overview

Auditory brainstem implant (ABI) is possible hearing solution in totally deaf patients, where cochlear implant is not possible or beneficial. These indications include cochlear aplasia, aplasia or hypoplasia of auditory nerve, neurofibromatosis type II and others. In ABI, the electrode is placed directly on the cochlear nucleus on the brainstem. In children, early intervention is essential; implantation before the age of 3 brings better hearing outcomes. This article summarizes the results to date and the hearing progress in the first two pediatric patients with ABI implanted in Czech Republic in 2022 and 2024 at the University Hospital Motol. The first patient, diagnosed with bilateral auditory nerve hypoplasia, was implanted with ABI after bilateral cochlear implantation without visible benefit. The second patient, diagnosed with rudimentary otocyst, was implanted directly with ABI. Both patients underwent regular speech therapy and implant fittings, and their hearing and communication abilities were monitored. This article provides an overview of the development and outcomes of two patients with ABI.