When cochlear implant surgery involves difficult anatomy or unexpected findings, experience and preparation matter. I was therefore particularly pleased to see cochlear implant surgeons from across India and the Asia-Pacific region come together in Hyderabad for APAC 2026, a meeting focused specifically on the realities of cochlear implant surgery.
APAC 2026 brings cochlear implant surgeons together
The 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Cochlear Implant Surgeries was held at Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital in Hyderabad on August 21 and 22, 2026, in association with Advanced Bionics. The meeting brought together practising cochlear implant surgeons from India, South Korea, Australia, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Dr. Shree Rao chaired the conference, while Dr. G.V.K. Chaitanya Rao, Managing Director, led the organisation of the event. The international faculty included Dr. Kristy Fraser-Kirk from Australia and Dr. Shankar B. Medikeri from Bengaluru, alongside representatives of Advanced Bionics including Sunil Kapoor and Dr. Vinod Nadig. The meeting was designed specifically for surgeons who perform cochlear implantation, creating an opportunity for focused professional discussion and exchange.
Learnings from complex cochlear implant surgeries
A major part of the programme focused on complex surgical situations. Three cases were discussed and dissected in the hospital laboratory, alongside cadaveric temporal bone dissection with electrode insertion and hands-on electrode-handling sessions.
The programme also included a live cochlear implant surgery performed by Dr. Shree Rao. The procedure was streamed from the operating theatre into the auditorium, allowing delegates to observe the surgery and ask questions while it was taking place.
The conference discussions emphasised that complex anatomy and unexpected findings can arise during cochlear implant surgery. Careful planning and familiarity with different surgical situations are therefore important parts of a surgeon’s preparation.
Beyond surgery: looking at the future of hearing restoration
APAC 2026 also explored how the field of hearing restoration is evolving. A dedicated CME session, “The Horizon of Otology”, held at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, focused on gene therapy for hereditary hearing loss.
Prof. Choi Byung Yoon of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital delivered the keynote address, discussing gene therapy for conditions including OTOF-related deafness, also known as DFNB9.
The meeting also highlighted an important research dimension. Dr. Shree Rao presented the methodology and findings of the BEEP Study, a collaboration with Advanced Bionics examining evoked potential measurements in cochlear implant recipients.
Why continued surgical learning matters
The value of a meeting such as APAC 2026 lies in bringing surgeons together around real surgical challenges, practical training and emerging developments. Cochlear implantation continues to be an important treatment option for children and adults with severe hearing loss, while research is opening new areas for hearing restoration. Dr. Shree Rao has previously written about her experience presenting at an international cochlear implant conference in Seoul, reflecting the same spirit of shared learning that shaped APAC 2026.
For patients and families considering cochlear implantation, the continuing exchange of surgical experience and research is an important part of how the field progresses.
Conclusion
APAC 2026 demonstrated the importance of collaboration among cochlear implant surgeons, combining complex case discussions, hands-on training, live surgery and research. For patients exploring cochlear implantation, discussing their individual circumstances with an experienced specialist can help them understand the available options. Book an appointment if you would like to discuss hearing loss and possible treatment.
FAQs
What was the focus of APAC 2026?
The conference focused on cochlear implant surgery, particularly complex cases, surgical training, electrode handling, live surgery and emerging developments in hearing restoration.
Who attended the conference?
Practising cochlear implant surgeons from India and countries including South Korea, Australia, Vietnam and Indonesia participated.
When should someone consult a cochlear implant specialist?
When severe hearing loss is not adequately addressed by existing hearing options, a specialist assessment can help determine whether cochlear implantation may be appropriate. Choosing an experienced cochlear implant specialist in Hyderabad can also help families understand the evaluation and treatment process.
