First Cochlear Implantation done in Nigeria -- LASUTH

Lagos State University Teaching Hospital LASUTH performed first-ever Cochlear implantation in the country.

The medical breakthrough which was performed in collaboration with Cochlear Foundation in Germany is meant to improve hearing in cases of severe deaf people.

At a media briefing on the success of the surgical procedure, which two people benefited, the Chief Medical Director of the Hospital, Professor Adewale Oke explained that lot of occurrences like generic effects and infections could account for hearing defects and could happen in children and adult.

Oke who boasted that the breakthrough was first in the history of the country said the feat would, to a large extent improve self- esteem and build social confidence in patients who as a result of loss of hearing isolated themselves from societal engagements.

The Chief Medical Director also explained that the surgery session which was projected offered opportunity to over 20 Nigerian Residents doctors to observe the procedure.

He said in the next few weeks or within a year, the two beneficiaries’ speech and  hearing would have improved tremendously.

Speaking, the Board Chairman, LASUTH, Dr.  Olatunde Williams described the breakthrough as a good solution to a long standing problem, impressively to the advantaged people with hearing loss.

The team leader, Professor Roland Laszing who is also Chairman, and Head, ENT Department of the University of Medical Center, Germany, advocated that screening of hearing loss be included in the intensive care of children in Nigeria with a view to ensure cost effective treatment.

Laszing who explained that the procedure has about 1 to 2 percent technical failure rate said it improves the quality of life of the patient.

The beneficiaries paid for the cost of implants which is about 23,000 Euro (N5m). The two beneficiaries include a five year old child and adult of about 55 years of age.  The implants will be switch on within four to six weeks.

Vanguard