Abstract
Introduction Bone conduction implants, responsible for transmitting sound from an external processor
to the inner ear, can be divided into active and passive, depending on the vibratory
stimulus location. The use of transcutaneous device has increased, given its aesthetic
appeal, the complications and limitations of percutaneous devices, and patient's treatment
adherence, focusing mainly on efficacy. However, various complications are associated
with the use of transcutaneous prosthesis, which can often be serious.
Objective To approach the literature on complications involving transcutaneous bone-anchored
prostheses through a systematic review of articles published in the past 10 years
(2011–2021).
Data Synthesis The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. All articles
written in English reporting on currently available transcutaneous prosthesis implantation
and its complications were selected. Studies on both children and adults were included.
The data on complications were extracted, and complications were classified as minor
or major and associated to each device used. Thirty-seven articles were included in
the study, of which 14 were prospective cohort studies, 22 were retrospective case
series, and 1 was a case report. Most studies (18) included both adults and children.
Moreover, 901 implantations were performed, of which 552 implanted Baha Attract (Cochlear
Ltd., Sydney, Australia), 244 implanted BoneBridge (MED-EL, Innsbruck, Austria), and
105 implanted Sophono (Sophono Inc., Boulder, CO, USA]). Furthermore, 192 adverse
events were reported (total complication rate, 21.3%), with 161 minor complications
(84.3%) and 31 major complications (16.1%).
Conclusion Transcutaneous prosthesis is an audiological alternative with fewer complications
than percutaneous prosthesis. However, its indication should be judicious because
complications are common, and although most complications are minor, serious infections
requiring explantation may develop.
Keywords
Baha Attract - BoneBridge - Sophono - bone-conduction implant - transcutaneous
