The Utility of a Predictive Model for Cochlear Implant Operating Time.

Objective: This study analyzes multiple factors and their significance in determining the operative timing for cochlear implants at one institution over a 10-year period.

Study Design: Retrospective case review.

Setting: Tertiary referral center.

Patients: All patients including both adult and pediatric undergoing cochlear implantation from 2002 through January 2012.

Intervention(s): Cochlear implantation.

Main Outcome Measure(s): The overall operative room time and surgical duration for patients undergoing cochlear implantation. Individual factors analyzed for influence on timing included center experience, surgeon experience, location (main OR, children's OR, outpatient OR), patient age, patient sex, bilaterality, anatomical consideration, complications, and the involvement of residents and fellows.

Results: ANOVA analysis of individual factors. Factors associated with increased surgical duration included bilateral implants, abnormal inner ear anatomy, and intraoperative complications. Factors associated with time outside the operation included surgical duration, the surgical suite type, and the availability of a fellow. Total operating room time was significantly reduced in an outpatient setting and in quicker performed procedures.

Conclusions: The influence of factors affecting both surgical duration and time in the operating room can be predicted and used to provide more accurate estimates of operating room time.