Program specialists translate scientific developments and innovative procedures into everyday techniques for parents, educators, pediatricians, and other mental health professionals. The NYU Hospitals Center's Department of Otolaryngology has studied cochlear implants since 1982, the year in which we were the first center in the northeastern United States to use a multichannel cochlear implant in a profoundly deaf adult. Since then, we have implanted more than 200 adults and children from age 20 months to 85 years. We are now aware that cochlear implants restore some degree of hearing sensation to the overwhelming majority of profoundly deaf individuals, including children born deaf. Any significant abnormality at birth can be heartbreaking, but facial deformities are particularly devastating.
Facial defects can range from quite simple to complex.
Major bone structures of the face may be underdeveloped, malformed, or totally absent, often requiring multiple surgeries and bone grafting. Distraction osteogenesis has revolutionized the care of children and adults with facial deformities. The technique stretches and the lengthens the bone over time by gradually inducing bone growth to repair defects - in essence, coaxing the body to repair itself. In mandibular distraction, lengthening of the lower jawbone, the procedure also helps to expand the soft tissues of the face, further improving facial symmetry. The Pediatric Comprehensive Epilepsy Program specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children with epilepsy.