# Cochlear Implant Complicated by Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infection: Report and Literature Review

## TL;DR

A rare case of a cochlear implant infection caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria is reported and successfully treated with a combination of antibiotics.

## Contribution

This paper adds a new clinical case to the limited literature on nontuberculous mycobacteria infections following cochlear implantation.

## Key findings

- Mycobacterium abscessus was identified as the causative agent in a post-cochlear implant infection.
- The infection was successfully treated with Azithromycin, Omadacycline, and injectable Cefoxitin.
- The patient showed no signs of infection at follow-up and is awaiting reimplantation.

## Abstract

Objective: Nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) infection of cochlear implants are exceedingly rare. Here, we report one such case and review the literature surrounding previous reports.

Methods: Case report.

Case Report: A 76-year-old female underwent right cochlear implantation. Her course was complicated by wound dehiscence, three surgical debridements, and ultimately explantation. Cultures ultimately grew Mycobacterium abscessus, which was effectively treated with Azithromycin, Omadacycline, and 3 months of injectable Cefoxitin. At the latest follow-up, the patient is without evidence of further infection and pending reimplantation.

Conclusion: NTM is a rare cause of postsurgical infections following cochlear implantation. It is especially important to consider this in cases of indolent, antibiotic-resistant infections to optimize patient treatment.