The recent 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Cochlear Implant Surgeries (APAC 2026) convened in Hyderabad on August 21–22, 2026, attracting cochlear implant surgeons from various countries in the region. Under the leadership of Dr. Shree Rao, the conference provided a platform to discuss the latest advancements in cochlear implant surgery, as well as the burgeoning role of gene therapy in addressing hereditary deafness.
Conference Overview
Hosted at Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital in collaboration with Advanced Bionics, APAC 2026 was designed exclusively for practicing cochlear implant surgeons. The two-day event featured participants and faculty from South Korea, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and multiple locations across India.
Dr. Shree Rao, the Director and a prominent Cochlear Implant Surgeon at Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital, chaired the scientific program, which included rigorous discussions on complex cases, cadaveric temporal bone dissections with electrode insertions, and hands-on experiences with electrode handling. A highlight was a live cochlear implant surgery conducted by Dr. Rao, broadcasted directly from the operating room.
Keynote on Gene Therapy Advances
A pivotal session titled “The Horizon of Otology” took place at Park Hyatt Hyderabad on August 22. Dr. Choi Byung Yoon, a renowned Professor of Otorhinolaryngology from Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, delivered the keynote address on “Gene Therapy for Hereditary Hearing Loss,” focusing on OTOF-related deafness, commonly referred to as DFNB9.
This session was particularly timely as it followed the recent approval by the US Food and Drug Administration of the first gene therapy targeting deafness caused by OTOF mutations. These developments indicate significant possibilities for hearing recovery in patients, although OTOF mutations represent only a small segment of inherited deafness cases. In contrast, GJB2 mutations, prevalent in India, currently lack an effective gene therapy, and routine genetic testing prior to cochlear implantation remains uncommon.
Expert Contributions
The conference featured a distinguished scientific faculty, including Dr. Kristy Fraser-Kirk from Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Dr. Shankar B. Medikeri from Medikeri Super Specialty ENT Center, and leaders from Advanced Bionics, such as Mr. Sunil Kapoor and Dr. Vinod Nadig. Their collective insights contributed to a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and innovations in cochlear implant surgery and related therapies.
The BEEP Study
Another significant aspect of APAC 2026 was the introduction of the BEEP Study, a collaborative initiative by Advanced Bionics aimed at examining evoked potential measurements in cochlear implant recipients. Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital serves as the Asia-Pacific site for this important research, underlining the institution’s commitment to advancing the field of hearing care.
Legacy of APAC
Having successfully hosted both editions of APAC, Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital stands out as the only center in the Asia-Pacific to facilitate this critical meeting. With over three decades of experience, the hospital boasts more than 41,500 surgeries and holds full NABH accreditation, reflecting its high standards of clinical practice.
Conclusion
The APAC 2026 conference represented a significant gathering of thought leaders in cochlear implant surgery and gene therapy, highlighting both the advancements and challenges in the field. As gene therapy continues to evolve, its integration into hearing care offers promising avenues for improving patient outcomes. The collaborative spirit and shared knowledge at this event are crucial for advancing treatment options for hereditary hearing loss.
- Key Takeaways:
- APAC 2026 emphasized the latest surgical techniques and the emerging role of gene therapy.
- Gene therapy for hereditary deafness is gaining traction, but gaps in treatment for common genetic causes remain.
- The BEEP Study exemplifies ongoing research efforts to enhance cochlear implant outcomes.
- Dr. Rao’s ENT Hospital continues to be a pivotal institution in the Asia-Pacific region for cochlear surgery and research.
Read more → www.outlookindia.com