There is new hope for young patients with hearing issues as Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) introduces three groundbreaking hearing surgeries. These innovative treatments are changing lives and making hearing more accessible for thousands of patients.

Introduction of New Hearing Surgeries

Over the past year, a multidisciplinary team at LHSC has achieved significant milestones in paediatric audiology. They became the first in Canada to perform a paediatric auditory brainstem implant (ABI) and the first in North America to robotically insert a paediatric cochlear implant. Additionally, they have added the Oticon implant, a bone conduction hearing device, to their surgical offerings.

Dr. Sumit Agrawal, head of LHSC’s department of otolaryngology, expressed excitement about these new treatments, emphasizing the hospital's commitment to providing cutting-edge options for patients in need.

Savannah’s Story

Savannah Lee, born without hearing, was the first child in Canada to receive the ABI. Her journey to hearing restoration showcases the impact of these innovative surgeries on patients' lives.

Diagnosis and Early Intervention

When Savannah was born, her parents noticed signs of hearing issues. After extensive testing, specialists at Children’s Hospital confirmed that she had an inner ear malformation and lacked a cochlear nerve, making traditional cochlear implants unsuitable.

Despite the challenges, the medical team at LHSC proposed the ABI as a groundbreaking solution. The risky surgery offered Savannah the possibility of hearing for the first time.

The Surgery and Activation

Under the skilled hands of Dr. Demir Bajin and his team, Savannah underwent the ABI surgery successfully. The activation of the implant a month later was a pivotal moment, as Savannah heard her first sound and her parents witnessed the miracle of her restored hearing.

Savannah Today

Today, Savannah is thriving with her ABI and a cochlear implant in her left ear. Her parents highlight the positive impact of these implants on her independence and quality of life.

Auditory Brainstem Implants (ABI)

Dr. Demir Bajin explains that ABIs are a game-changer for patients who cannot benefit from traditional cochlear implants. LHSC is at the forefront of offering this technology to paediatric patients in Canada.

Robotic Cochlear Implants

LHSC conducted North America’s first paediatric robotic cochlear implant surgery, enhancing safety and precision in the procedure. Dr. Sumit Agrawal emphasizes the importance of this innovative approach in improving outcomes for patients.

Oticon Implants

Dr. Peng You discusses the significance of LHSC offering the Oticon implant, providing patients with an effective alternative for hearing loss. This development has brought essential care closer to home for many families.

These advancements in paediatric audiology at LHSC are transforming the lives of young patients with hearing challenges, offering new possibilities and improved outcomes.

Source: LHSC