Simultaneous Bilateral Cochlear Implant Performed on 13-Month-Old Infant at Fortis Bannerghata Road

 Simultaneous Bilateral Cochlear Implant Performed on 13-Month-Old Infant at Fortis Bannerghata Road 

- Bilateral cochlear implantation is a surgical procedure in which electronic hearing devices are implanted in both ears for those individuals who have profound hearing loss~ 

Belagavi, May 2025: In a pioneering achievement, Fortis Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, has successfully performed a simultaneous bilateral cochlear implant surgery on a 13-month-old infant, making him one of the youngest in the country to undergo this advanced hearing restoration procedure. Led by Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant - ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, the landmark case reflects a growing societal shift towards proactive, timely medical care for congenital conditions and the Fortis’ commitment to early intervention in paediatric hearing loss.  

When Baby Abhiraj (Name Changed) was born in Belagavi, his arrival brought immense joy to his family. But that joy quickly gave way to concern when a routine newborn hearing screening flagged a potential issue. Multiple follow-up tests, including Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) conducted at three leading centers, confirmed their worst fear: Abhiraj had profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. In clinical terms, he was “stone deaf”—unable to hear even the loudest of sounds. Determined to find the best medical solution, the family approached Fortis Bannerghata for further evaluation and guidance. 

Recognizing the narrow window for critical brain development, particularly for speech and language, Dr Susheen Dutt emphasized the urgency of early intervention. After thorough counselling and careful deliberation, the family made the brave decision to proceed with simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation. 

Explaining the procedure Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant - ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, said, "Bilateral cochlear implantation is a surgical procedure in which electronic hearing devices are implanted in both ears to provide sound perception for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit from conventional hearing aids. It’s a more complex yet beneficial approach compared to sequential implantation. The five-and-a-half-hour surgery was completed successfully, with minimal blood loss, no complications, and no ICU observation required post-operation. The child recovered during the stay in the ward and was discharged after a day. This case is a great testimony to the fact what can be achieved through early screening, precise diagnosis and coordinated care. The family showed tremendous courage and trust in our team, and we are proud to have been part of this child’s life-changing journey.” 

Following the surgery, the family returned to Belgaum. The child has been enrolled in a specialized auditory-verbal therapy program with the goal of entering mainstream schooling by the age of two and a half years. 

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, "This case sets a powerful precedent for timely intervention in congenital conditions. It demonstrates that early cochlear implantation significantly enhances language acquisition, phonetic development, and even the ability to learn multiple languages—enabling the child to grow up and participate fully in society like any other hearing child. At Fortis, cochlear implantation isn’t just about restoring hearing—it’s about giving children the chance to live a life without limits.”  

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