Retrospective Analysis of Cerebrospinal Gushers in Cochlear Implant Surgery: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes—A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) gusher is a common complication experienced during cochlear implantation in patients with structural deformities in the inner ear. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the incidence of CSF gusher, risk factors, and outcomes in patients during cochlear implantation. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses model. Studies used in the analysis were identified through a comprehensive search in Google Scholar and PubMed. Results: The analysis was performed using 13 retrospective studies. The incidence of CSF gusher was 5% (95% CI: 3%-9%). CSF gusher was more prevalent among patients with inner-ear malformation (IEM) than without IEM odds ratio = 63.01 (95% CI: 9.85-403.11, P < .00001, I2 = 88%). For incomplete partition (IP), CSF gusher in the IP-I group was 48% (95% CI: 25%-71%, I2 = 0%), 19% in IP-II, 86% in IP-III, 40% in the common cavity, 26% in cochlear hypoplasia, and 27% in patients with enlarged vestibula aqueduct. Conclusion: The CSF gusher incidences were determined to be 5%. Patients with IEM are at increased risk of experiencing CSF gusher during cochlear implant surgery. Therefore, precise scanning reports should be produced in preoperational phase to inform proper management techniques to reduce the chances of intraoperative complications, including CSF gusher.