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Initial concerns and reservations regarding the risks of the cochlear prosthesis are diminishing. Ten years ago the statement that the cochlear prosthesis is the therapy of choice for certain forms of profound hearing loss would have been viewed with great doubt by almost all otolaryngologists. Even a few years ago, it would have found few supporters. Today it finds many. Obvious medical problems following implantation are typically readily managed or minimal. Varying degrees of benefit are reported and patient response is usually positive. On the basis of these observations, implants are finding increasing acceptance and application.
While there are a number of clinicians and investigators who maintain substantial reservations regarding the extent of application and the rigidity of criteria that need to be applied to candidate populations, the use of the prosthesis is gaining wide acceptance. At the very least, most accept its clear potential.
Based on a concern for