Magnetic resonance imaging and bone anchored hearing implants: pediatric considerations

Objective: Recent developments in bone conduction hearing systems have seen the introduction of transcutaneous devices comprising of magnetic components. Our aim was to identify the number of children implanted with a traditional, non-magnetic percutaneous bone anchored hearing implant (BAHI) who would not have been eligible for a transcutaneous implant based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) need.

Methods: A retrospective case review of 206 children who had a percutaneous BAHI at the Birmingham Children's Hospital (January 2009-October 2012) for auditory rehabilitation.

Results: Twenty-eight percent (56/206) of children required at least one MRI scan after receiving a BAHI and 10 percent of patients (20/206) required two or more MRI scans. The main indication for MRI scanning was for neurological co-morbidities; a MRI brain was the most common scan performed.

Conclusion: Although transcutaneous hearing devices/middle ear implants have their clear benefits, it may be argued that these relatively more invasive surgical procedures may not be the best option for the child who will require MRI scanning at some point in the future. Clinicians should be mindful of any need for MRI scanning when considering implant choices in the pediatric population.