Riyadh: A surgical team at King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center at King Saud University Medical City performed the world's first cochlear implant procedure using autonomous navigation technology, marking a significant advancement in hearing restoration surgery.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Consultant Otolaryngologist at King Saud University Medical City Dr. Farid Alzahrani explained that autonomous navigation is among the latest technologies supporting cochlear implant procedures. It enables surgeons to achieve a precise and consistent electrode insertion pathway, helping improve hearing outcomes.

He noted that the procedure begins with the development of a detailed surgical plan based on medical imaging and the physiological responses expected during electrode insertion into the cochlea. The technology then guides the electrode along the predetermined path with a high degree of accuracy, enhancing surgical precision and consistency.

Alzahrani added that King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center is among the first centers worldwide to adopt this pioneering technology.