Electrogustometric assessment of taste after otologic surgery in children

Abstract

There is a 9% baseline level of electrogustometric abnormality in the pediatric population, which suggests a subclinical level of gustatory dysfunction. Normal electrogustometry was found in 50% of children after modified radical mastoidectomy, suggesting a degree of neural regenerative capacity. Finally, cochlear implantation, using newer surgical techniques (in the bilateral cochlear implant group) has a low risk for causing gustatory dysfunction, reducing concerns over the safety profile of bilateral cochlear implantation.