Long-term evaluation of single sided deaf CI-patients

Introduction:

The aim of the present study is to investigate the long-term benefits of single-sided deaf (SSD) CI-recipients who have been implanted for more than three years with regard to their wearing behavior, the subjective benefit of the CI and the evaluation of the results of auditory hearing rehabilitation.

Methods:

Validated questionnaires were used to determine the daily wearing behavior (IIEH), the subjective benefit of the CI (SSQ) as well as the subjective quality of life (HUI Mark 2/3) and subjective evaluation of the tinnitus (visual scale). In addition, speech recognition in noise and localization ability were determined. The results of the above mentioned examinations and questionnaires were collected, evaluated and compared at different points in time (3 months, 6 months, 12 months and > 3 years).

Results:

More than 95% of the included 77 SSD CI-recipients wear their CI for a daily average of 8 to 10 hours. Therefore, less than 5% are non-users. Daily wearing behavior was stable throughout the period surveyed. In addition, there was a significant positive correlation between the audiologically measured speech recognition in noise, the results in SSQ and the wearing behavior in the IIEH. In the course of CI use, there was a significant improvement in subjective speech intelligibility in the SSQ.

Conclusions:

We were able to show that the majority of SSD CI-recipients wear their CI regularly over three years after implantation. In addition, the presented long-term study proves that speech recognition improves after the rehabilitation phase of three years and has a positive influence on the wearing behavior of the patients. Thus, a longer rehabilitation phase and follow-up of the patients at a qualified center is necessary.

Publication History

Publication Date:
23 April 2019 (online)