Dose-Dependent Suppression of the Electrically Elicited Stapedius Reflex by General Anesthetics in Children Undergoing Cochlear Implant Surgery

Abstract

Volatile anesthetics suppress the stapedius reflex in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that ESRT measurements acquired during volatile anesthesia will overestimate the maximum comfort level, which may cause discomfort postoperatively and adversely affect the child's adaptation to the implant. We advise against the use of volatile anesthetics for measurement of the stapedius reflex threshold during cochlear implant surgery.