Cochlear Implants International[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
A rare case report of cochlear implant antenna prosthesis deformity due to neo-osteogenesis of skull bone and its management.
Haghi MR, Ketabi K, Majid HA … +1 more , Valipour Z
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Nov · PMID 41236759 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cochlear implantation (CI) is a highly effective intervention for severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, significantly improving auditory and speech outcomes. While generally safe, late-onset complica...
BACKGROUND: Cochlear implantation (CI) is a highly effective intervention for severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, significantly improving auditory and speech outcomes. While generally safe, late-onset complications, particularly in pediatric recipients due to dynamic skull growth, can arise, necessitating comprehensive understanding and tailored management. CASE PRESENTATION: We report an 11-year-old boy who received a CI at 26 months. Two years prior to presentation, he experienced localized inflammation at the implant site. More recently, he developed recurrent scalp wounds over the magnet and frequent device disconnections. High-resolution computed tomography revealed complete internal magnet dislodgment and significant deformation of the receiver antenna. Surgical exploration confirmed a dislocated magnet, extensive neo-osteogenesis encasing the antenna, and its irreversible deformation, while the electrode array remained intact. The complications were meticulously managed surgically, successfully preserving the existing device. Post-operative evaluations confirmed optimal placement, restored function, and improved auditory performance. CONCLUSION: Identifying unique late-onset adverse events like magnet dislodgment and neo-osteogenesis may occur years after implantation. Surgical strategies, can preserve the existing implant, prevent complete device replacement, reduce patient morbidity and surgical risks, offer healthcare economic benefits, and result in timely management of these complex complications.
Cochlear implantation for inner ear malformations with facial nerve aberrations: A retrospective evaluation of eleven cases.
Satoh C, Hara M, Kanda Y … +3 more , Yoshida H, Takahashi H, Kumai Y
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Nov · PMID 41223307 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to retrospectively review the anatomical characteristics of aberrant facial nerves and the surgical management of patients undergoing cochlear implantation. METHODS: Between 1997 and 2022, 658...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to retrospectively review the anatomical characteristics of aberrant facial nerves and the surgical management of patients undergoing cochlear implantation. METHODS: Between 1997 and 2022, 658 ears of 485 patients underwent CI surgery at our institute. Among these, we retrospectively reviewed the files of patients with facial nerve aberrations that were confirmed during surgery. Specifically, types of FN aberrations, coexisting inner- or middle-ear malformations were examined using image analysis including three-dimensional computed tomography(3D-CT) images, and types of electrode insertion methods were examined based on operative notes and recorded videoclips for each case. RESULTS: FN aberrations were observed in 11 ears of 6 cases (1.7%). Inner ear malformations and stapes deformities or absence were observed in all cases. Cochlear malformations and cochlear nerve hypoplasia were observed in six and eight ears, respectively. All cases exhibited inferior displacement of the horizontal segment and anterior dislocation of the vertical segment of the FN. CONCLUSION: All the cases with FN aberrations identified during CI surgery had middle- or inner-ear or cochlear nerve malformations. Preoperative simulation using 3D-CT images was of great help for the successful electrode insertion in our patients, who had an abnormal FN course and inner ear malformations (IEMs).
Individualized home-based phoneme training for adult cochlear implant users reduces phoneme confusion errors.
Philpott N, Philips B, Wasmann JW … +4 more , Migliorini E, van Dijk B, Mylanus EAM, Huinck WJ
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41219176 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study presents a novel approach to reducing phoneme confusion errors among adult cochlear implant (CI) users through personalized phoneme training delivered via a mobile app. METHODS: Twenty-one experienc...
OBJECTIVE: This study presents a novel approach to reducing phoneme confusion errors among adult cochlear implant (CI) users through personalized phoneme training delivered via a mobile app. METHODS: Twenty-one experienced adult CI users participated in a four-week at-home phoneme training program using the mobile app. Participants trained 20 minutes daily in 5-minute intervals, five days a week. Training materials were customized to address each participant's unique phoneme confusion errors, as identified by a phoneme recognition test in quiet. RESULTS: On a group level, participants showed significant improvements in targeted phoneme errors. Individually, training effects varied, with both trained phonemes and some carry-over to word perception. Regardless of age, pre-training speech perception, or device specifics, most participants demonstrated a >10% improvement in phoneme confusion errors. CONCLUSION: This individualized, bottom-up phoneme training approach holds promise for enhancing speech perception at the phoneme level in adult CI users. By addressing specific phoneme confusion errors through tailored training materials, home-based individualized rehabilitation may contribute to improved speech understanding and communication outcomes. This app-based, self-paced training method provides adult CI users with greater autonomy and empowerment within their home environments. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05307952.
Auditory and speech performance in patients following transcutaneous Osia®2 system implantation.
Garrada M, Zawawi F
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Nov · PMID 41201380 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical audiological outcomes as well as patient satisfaction following implantation with the Osia2 System. METHODS: This is a prospective clinical study...
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical audiological outcomes as well as patient satisfaction following implantation with the Osia2 System. METHODS: This is a prospective clinical study was conducted at high volume academic center of patients who underwent implantation of the Cochlear Osia2 System. Audiological outcomes included pre- and post-operative assessments of pure-tone audiometry, speech discrimination scores, and self-reported hearing difficulties questionnaire. RESULTS: The surgical procedure and subsequent healing process proceeded without complications. We observed statistically significant improvements in audibility and speech understanding with the test device, compared to pre-operative conditions. The average gain across frequencies from 0.25 to 6 kHz was 39.17 db. Speech discrimination scores also showed an increase in scores' average from 64 ± 8 pre-operatively to 100 ± 8 post-operatively ( < .001). Additionally, the number of hearing issues assessed by the APHAB scale in various acoustic environments showed a statically significant decrease postoperative. The Global Score improved from 68.2 ± 5.53 pre-operatively to 27.3 ± 4.26 post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: The Osia2 System proves to be a safe and effective alternative for hearing rehabilitation in patients with conductive hearing loss (CHL), mixed hearing loss (MHL), or single-sided deafness (SSD).
The impact of the video head impulse test on side determination in cochlear implantation surgery.
McKenna RP, Taylor S, Leonard CG
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Nov · PMID 41198563 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of the Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) on side determination in cochlear implantation (CI) surgery. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of vHIT results from 75 adult sequential CI recipients...
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of the Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) on side determination in cochlear implantation (CI) surgery. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of vHIT results from 75 adult sequential CI recipients at a regional auditory implant centre between January 2023 and April 2024. Patients were grouped by side of implantation (right, n = 40; left, n = 35). vHIT results were assessed through clinical assessment and normative comparison. For categorical analysis, patients were classified as having their 'better' or 'worse' balance ear implanted, or normal or equally abnormal function bilaterally. Clinical assessment was based on clinician interpretation of vHIT graphs, while normative comparison applied established gain thresholds and corrective saccades to define abnormality. RESULTS: Neither clinical nor normative analysis demonstrated a significant association between vHIT findings and the side implanted. This is supported by continuous gain value analysis showing no statistical differences between cohorts. DISCUSSION: Although implanting the ear with poorer vestibular function may minimise postoperative disequilibrium, vestibular testing is not universally performed nor advocated for. Other factors, including patient preference and anatomical constraints, may have considerable influence on side selection. CONCLUSION: Concerns about implanting the 'better' balance ear are valid, however, vHIT does not outweigh other factors when determining CI sidedness.
PTFE Sheets for fixation of auditory brainstem implant (ABI) stimulating probes in children may improve hearing outcomes.
Robert B, Marek P
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 41196117 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Fixation of the stimulating probe of auditory brainstem implants (ABI) is crucial to maintain beneficial stimulation. Use of Tetrafluorethylen (PTFE, Teflon) sheets as a fixation material was compared to fixat...
OBJECTIVE: Fixation of the stimulating probe of auditory brainstem implants (ABI) is crucial to maintain beneficial stimulation. Use of Tetrafluorethylen (PTFE, Teflon) sheets as a fixation material was compared to fixation without PTFE-sheets. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective analysis. PATIENTS: 46 children with sensorineural hearing loss, not eligible for CI, received an ABI; 27 children without PTFE (Control Group, CG), 18 children with PTFE (Teflon Group, TG). Mean age of CG (46.6 months), TG (37.4 months), n.s. Mean follow-up 49.3 months (CG), 33 months (TG), n.s. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number of stimulating probe dislocations, number of active electrodes, electrically evoked auditory-brainstem-response (eABR) morphology performed intraoperatively and postoperatively, maximum comfortable level (MCL), categories of auditory-performance (CAP) scores. RESULTS: TG showed no electrode dislocations, CG had one. eABR waves varied from 2 to 5 in both groups, number of active electrodes was similar. Mean MCL was sign. lower in TG (49.2 nC) vs CG (98.6 nC). CAP scores were sign. better in TG (5.0) vs CG (4.2), after 2 years and 5.4 vs 4.6 after 3 years post-activation. CONCLUSION: PTFE sheets proved to be an effective and stable fixation material for ABI stimulating probes, resulting in potentially better auditory outcomes as indicated by significantly lower MCLs and improved CAP scores. Compared to other fixation materials used in the CG, PTFE-sheets appear to be the better choice.
A histological validation of an automatic cochlear implant electrode placement assessment from clinical computed tomography images.
Hussain R, Patou F, Calixto R … +2 more , Matti IM, Dietz A
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41195973 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to validate the accuracy of the post-operative sub-anatomical cochlear implant placement outcomes of an automatic image analysis tool with respect to histological analysis. METHO...
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to validate the accuracy of the post-operative sub-anatomical cochlear implant placement outcomes of an automatic image analysis tool with respect to histological analysis. METHODS: Fourteen fresh-frozen temporal bones (TBs) were implanted. Pre- and post-operative computed tomography (CT) scans were processed through Nautilus, which provided information about electrode placement. Histological examination was then conducted to assess the cross-sectional positions of the electrode array at different insertion angles in relation to the cochlea. RESULTS: The Nautilus reconstructions were coherent with the histological analysis for all cases (k = 1.0, n = 39 histology measurements). Nautilus' prediction of the basilar membrane and electrode position with respect to the walls of the bony labyrinth yielded average absolute errors of 0.09 mm (r = 0.54) and 0.23 mm (r = 0.40), respectively (n = 26 cross-sections). Additionally, Nautilus yielded mean dice scores of 0.90, 0.83, and 0.90 (n = 26 cross-sections) and average surface distance errors of 0.05, 0.07, and 0.06 mm (n = 26 cross-sections) for the scala tympani, vestibuli, and bony labyrinth, respectively. DISCUSSION: The identification of intra-cochlear structures from CT images is challenging due to the limited resolution and metallic artifacts. Nautilus provides an easily accessible research tool for automated cochlear analysis using pre- and postoperative CT images. CONCLUSION: This study, conducted on cadaver bones, suggests that Nautilus may be a reliable tool for inferring the position of the basilar membrane and electrode array in CT scans.
Cochlear implantation in osteogenesis imperfecta: a case series on feasibility, challenges, and outcomes.
Boone G, Sappington J
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41171636 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The primary objectives of this investigation were to describe the relationship between osteogenesis imperfecta and hearing loss, evaluate the feasibility and challenges of cochlear implantation in osteogenesis...
OBJECTIVE: The primary objectives of this investigation were to describe the relationship between osteogenesis imperfecta and hearing loss, evaluate the feasibility and challenges of cochlear implantation in osteogenesis imperfecta patients, and report on postoperative hearing outcomes and overall impact on quality of life. PATIENTS: This case series details two female patients with osteogenesis imperfecta with a history of multiple fractures. Both patients experienced profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and had limited benefit from hearing aids. INTERVENTION(S): Binaural cochlear implantation was performed to address profound sensorineural hearing loss in osteogenesis imperfecta patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Preoperative and postoperative hearing assessments, along with additional clinical, radiological, and surgical data were utilized to evaluate surgical feasibility, describe specific surgical considerations and challenges in osteogenesis imperfecta patients, and determine the overall impact of cochlear implantation on patient outcomes. RESULTS: Despite encountering significant surgical challenges due to the unique anatomical features of osteogenesis imperfecta, successful cochlear implantation was achieved in both patients. Postoperative evaluations demonstrated improvement in hearing performance and increased patient satisfaction and well-being.
A different bimodal: case series of patients with a cochlear implant and a contralateral bone conduction implant.
Clemesha J, Chung M
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41105834 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of long-term users of bone conduction implants (BCI) have been observed to no longer obtain sufficient benefit from their device due to deteriorations in hearing thresholds. At the mult...
INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of long-term users of bone conduction implants (BCI) have been observed to no longer obtain sufficient benefit from their device due to deteriorations in hearing thresholds. At the multidisciplinary auditory implant centre at the University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, these patients are assessed and considered for cochlear implantation (CI). This case series describes the history and outcomes of patients who became bimodal implant users, utilising electrical and vibratory auditory stimulation with a BCI and CI. This unique patient group has seldom been described in the literature. METHODS: Case series from a retrospective chart review of patients who utilise the combination of electrical and vibratory auditory stimulation with the use of a bone conduction implant and cochlear implant, up to November 2023. RESULTS: Six bimodal patients were identified from the patient cohort. Their case history and outcome are described. CONCLUSION: The synergy of electrical and vibratory auditory stimulation observed in this case series provided subjective functional benefits and measurable speech perception benefits for some patients, while others experienced minimal or no measurable benefit and ceased usage.
Strategies for improving music perception and enjoyment: a case study of a deafblind musician with cochlear implants.
Lam C, Vickers D, Parmar B
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41099587 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study explores the experiences of a deafblind cochlear implant (CI) user, who is also a musician and a music therapist. It aims to provide insights into adaptive strategies that might improve music liste...
OBJECTIVES: This study explores the experiences of a deafblind cochlear implant (CI) user, who is also a musician and a music therapist. It aims to provide insights into adaptive strategies that might improve music listening with CIs. METHODS: A qualitative case study framework was utilized, incorporating an in-depth semi-structured interview with the participant. This methodological approach facilitated a comprehensive examination of the participant's musical engagement and the evolution of their auditory experiences over time. The transcribed data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify emergent patterns and themes. RESULTS: Four main themes were identified through thematic analysis: (1) emotional connection and musical identity, (2) changes in musical engagement throughout deafblindness, (3) innovative self-driven strategies for improving music perception, and (4) technological and social support in music perception. DISCUSSION: The interviewee's experiences highlight a proactive approach to integrating CI auditory cues with extensive musical expertise. The study underscores the importance of personalized CI programming, audiologist support and adaptive strategies in enhancing music perception and enjoyment for CI users. While based on a single case, the findings provide insights into how CI users develop individualized approaches to music. This study advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to CI programming, accommodating diverse hearing histories and musical backgrounds.
Surgical steps to perform an accurate apical cochleostomy.
Cottrell J, Landsberger D, Winchester A … +5 more , Shapiro W, Friedmann DR, Jethanamest D, McMenomey S, Roland JT
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Sep · PMID 41088766 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: We sought to consolidate the anatomical findings from radiologic research and prior surgical literature to develop a stepwise surgical approach utilizing cadaveric specimens which can serve to improve the accu...
OBJECTIVE: We sought to consolidate the anatomical findings from radiologic research and prior surgical literature to develop a stepwise surgical approach utilizing cadaveric specimens which can serve to improve the accuracy and scalability of surgical apical cochleostomies in the future. METHODS: Cadaveric temporal bone dissections, with subsequent image documentation and distance measurements to confirm surgical accuracy. RESULTS: All four temporal bones (100%) that were drilled utilizing the newly developed surgical approach had an accurately placed apical cochleostomy. No inadvertent entry into the middle turn of the cochlea occurred. There was no violation of the labyrinthine facial nerve, or carotid artery. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary findings are promising for the described steps to achieve a substantial improvement in apical cochleostomy accuracy, with reduced trauma compared to historically taught techniques.
MRI evaluation of the Osia® 2 hearing implant with OSI300 actuator: insights from a full-head cadaver model.
Diosi B, Molnar FA, Bere Z … +8 more , Csomor A, Kaszas I, Toth Z, Posta B, Nogradi A, Kincses ZT, Rovo L, Perenyi A
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 41087104 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of magnetic resonance (MR) image artefacts caused by the OSI300 implant system on the ability to visualize specific cranial structures. METHODS: One cadaveric head was u...
OBJECTIVES: Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of magnetic resonance (MR) image artefacts caused by the OSI300 implant system on the ability to visualize specific cranial structures. METHODS: One cadaveric head was unilaterally implanted and underwent MR imaging in 1.5 and 3 Tesla magnetic fields under the following conditions: (1) no device, (2) Cochlear BI300 plus OSI300 with magnet, (3) Cochlear BI300 plus OSI300 with spacer, (4) Cochlear BI300 plus OSI300 without magnet or spacer using the institutional protocol and with metal artefact reduction (MAVRIC SL). Blinded image scoring was performed independently by three radiologists. RESULTS: Excluding diffusion and susceptibility weighted imaging (DWI and SWI) anatomical structures contralateral to the OSI300 implant were highly visible in all conditions. Artefact size was clearly improved after magnet removal and with metal artefact reduction technique. DISCUSSION: The OSI300 system produces image artefacts in both 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla MR imaging and, as previous research has reported, with the coil magnet removed, offers the least amount of distortion and artefact. CONCLUSION: While certain sequences such as DWI, FLAIR and SWI showed notably reduced diagnostic value, the MAVRIC SL sequences proved to reduce implant artefact resulting in diagnostic quality examinations.
An information program for parents of cochlear implant candidates.
Cankuvvet N, Doğan M
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 41086527 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Parents need clear, comprehensive information about the cochlear implant (CI). A standardized program can enhance access, family-centered care, and parental involvement. This study develops aprogram addressing t...
PURPOSE: Parents need clear, comprehensive information about the cochlear implant (CI). A standardized program can enhance access, family-centered care, and parental involvement. This study develops aprogram addressing these needs. METHOD: Using a mixed-methods exploratory sequential design, Phase1, involved focus groups with six CI team members and seven parents, and semi-structured interviews with company representatives. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically and a survey developed from these findings, was administered to 100 parents of CI users with results analyzed descriptively. Phase 2, the program on the CI process, development with CI, CI devices, and parental experiences was developed, implemented, and evaluated with applied to 32 parents. Its effectiveness was tested experimentally using, t-tests on achievement scores, and social validity was assessed through survey. RESULTS: Three main themes captures parents' information needs: (1) necessity of the program, (2) structure, and (3) content, comprising twelve sub-themes on specific components. The program proved highly effective and socially valid in meeting parents' needs. CONCLUSIONS: The program addresses a key gap by meeting parents' informational needs and may enhance access to rehabilitation through empowerment. Sample representativeness remains a limitation. Future research should adapt the program to diverse contexts and consider a web-based version for broader access.
Parental recommendations for cochlear implants: A qualitative study of parental experiences.
Lim TZ, Umat C, Chen PH … +3 more , Goh BS, Gan CH, Lai YT
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 40990235 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Hearing parents who lack knowledge regarding hearing loss and medical intervention typically experience disorientation and stress when their child is diagnosed with hearing loss and needs a cochlear implant (C...
OBJECTIVE: Hearing parents who lack knowledge regarding hearing loss and medical intervention typically experience disorientation and stress when their child is diagnosed with hearing loss and needs a cochlear implant (CI). This study aims to document recommendations experienced parents may provide to new parents based on their experiences. METHODS: Sixteen parents of children with CI were interviewed, with the children's chronological age ranging between 26 and 91 months, averaging 11.7 months (standard deviation = 8.0) at the age of deafness diagnosis. Open-ended questions were asked to encourage parents to provide recommendations based on their interventional experiences. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: The study identified four main themes that emerged based on parents' suggestions to parents about to step into the child's CI intervention journey. These themes included (a) acceptance and action, (b) proactively searching for information, (c) help-seeking from others, and (d) being financially prepared. CONCLUSION: The present qualitative study provides additional evidence to new parents on CI decision-making for their children who need CI. It suggests that new parents may seek guidance from parent-to-parent support groups and fully prepare themselves with essential knowledge and a healthy mentality before initiating their child's CI intervention journey.
Comparison of photon-counting CT and conventional CT for cochlear implant preoperative planning.
Quatre R, Bonnard Å, Eklöf M … +3 more , Denanto FM, Brismar TB, Wales J
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 40952987 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Accurate cochlear measurements are crucial for personalized cochlear implantation, requiring high-quality imaging for precise cochlear duct length (CDL) assessment. Photon-counting computed tomography (PC-C...
INTRODUCTION: Accurate cochlear measurements are crucial for personalized cochlear implantation, requiring high-quality imaging for precise cochlear duct length (CDL) assessment. Photon-counting computed tomography (PC-CT) is an advanced imaging technique that enhances image quality while reducing radiation exposure. The aim of this study was to compare PC-CT and conventional CT in cochlear measurements using cochlear implant planning software in patients with a unilateral cochlear implant. METHOD: This prospective study was conducted at a tertiary referral center. All patients had a previous conventional temporal bone CT before cochlear implantation and a PC-CT of the temporal bone for the post implant evaluation. Image analysis for both PC-CT and CT was performed with the OTOPLAN version 3.0 software manually and independently by three different otologist experts in the field. RESULTS: Ten cochleae were evaluated. The mean full CDL was 35.81 ± 1.22 mm in CT and 35.99 ± 1.94 mm in PC-CT (P = 0.77) Inter-observer reliability was poor for CT with an intra-correlation coefficient of 0.16 and moderate for PC-CT with an intra-correlation coefficient of 0.71. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the advantages of PC-CT over conventional CT by improving the reliability and reproducibility of CDL measurements in patients.
Evaluation of speech performance and hearing ability after unilateral cochlear implantation with new HiRes Ultra CI in Chinese population.
Cui J, Zeng S, Zhou X … +4 more , Ni Y, Boyle P, Tian X, Zhang J
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 40815546 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: A real-world study of the Ultra cochlear implant was completed in 2022, aiming to compare preoperative and postoperative performance. The use of two different electrode arrays and their ability to preserve resid...
PURPOSE: A real-world study of the Ultra cochlear implant was completed in 2022, aiming to compare preoperative and postoperative performance. The use of two different electrode arrays and their ability to preserve residual hearing were also investigated. METHODS: A TOTAL OF: 78 subjects were enrolled in this study. All participants completed the preoperative baseline assessment and postoperative speech and hearing tests. Subjective questionnaires were administered to participants under 6 years old. The development of impedance and M-levels over time was also analysed. For participants older than 6 years of age, pure tone audiometry was performed to evaluate hearing preservation. RESULTS: The postoperative average aided hearing threshold and speech test results showed a statistically significant improvement compared to preoperative results ( < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the two electrode arrays ( > 0.05). Overall, impedance and M-levels showed typical trends of progression. Most participants obtained good hearing preservation, while no significant difference in hearing deterioration was reported between the two electrodes ( = 0.20). CONCLUSION: The Ultra implant can significantly improve hearing and speech abilities. No significant difference was observed in speech perception between the two arrays. Results confirmed that the Ultra implant is safe and effective for both paediatric and adult populations.
Enhancing support for pupils with cochlear implants in Tanzania's inclusive primary schools: a wake-up call for a strong collaborative approach.
Kisanga SE, Foya ZO
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Jul · PMID 40758906 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study aimed to explore the support mechanisms school management applies to improve inclusivity for Pupils with Cochlear Implants (PCIs) in inclusive primary schools. METHODS: Data was collect...
OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study aimed to explore the support mechanisms school management applies to improve inclusivity for Pupils with Cochlear Implants (PCIs) in inclusive primary schools. METHODS: Data was collected from 25 participants from five inclusive schools, using semi-structured interviews and observation methods. RESULTS: The study revealed that teachers have limited knowledge in identifying the learning needs of pupils with cochlear implants. Their identification of students' needs was primarily informed by personal teaching experience, online resources, and input from parents of pupils with cochlear implants. The support provided to these students was largely inadequate in meeting their specific educational requirements, as it focused primarily on noise reduction measures, the provision of teaching and learning materials, and additional time during instruction and assessments. Furthermore, teachers reported having limited knowledge regarding the maintenance of cochlear implants, highlighting a critical gap in their capacity to effectively support these learners. CONCLUSION: Thus, the study recommends that the government should consider pupils with special needs in its national budget to improve teaching and learning environments. Also, it is essential to foster collaboration between school management, cochlear implant experts, parents, educational officials, and the community to enhance further inclusivity.
Binaural fusion in single-sided deaf cochlear implant users.
de Villars L, Galvin JJ, Fu QJ … +3 more , Legrand F, Robier M, Bakhos D
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 May · PMID 40712098 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Single-sided deaf (SSD) cochlear implant (CI) patients often have difficulty with spatial perception, which may be partly due to limited fusion of acoustic and electric hearing. In the present study, we invest...
OBJECTIVE: Single-sided deaf (SSD) cochlear implant (CI) patients often have difficulty with spatial perception, which may be partly due to limited fusion of acoustic and electric hearing. In the present study, we investigated binaural fusion in SSD CI patients. METHODS: Eight adult SSD CI patients participated in the study. Binaural fusion was measured using speech and non-speech stimuli. Listeners indicated whether they heard 1 or 2 auditory images, the diffuseness of the sound, and lateralization of sounds in a virtual space. RESULTS: Binaural fusion and similarity ratings were highly variable across participants. Across all participants and stimuli, a single auditory image was perceived only 40.23 ± 38.46% of the time. Sensitivity to stimulus types varied greatly across participants, but in no consistent manner. Diffuseness was significantly larger for words and environmental sounds than for sentences and tones. When one image was perceived, stimuli were generally lateralized towards the center. When two images were perceived, the mean lateralization was 57.11 ± 56.67 degrees. CONCLUSIONS: Binaural fusion in the present SSD CI users was much less than observed in previous studies with bilateral CI users, possibly due to differences in stimulation patterns between acoustic and electric hearing and interaural frequency mismatch.
Early activation in cochlear implantation: the patient's perspective.
Biever A, Bishop GA, Adkins WJ … +2 more , Lupo JE, Kelsall DC
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 Mar · PMID 40634122 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Early cochlear implant activation has been established as safe and effective. The purpose of this study is to assess the patient's perspective on their early activation experience. METHODS: A custom, 6-item q...
OBJECTIVES: Early cochlear implant activation has been established as safe and effective. The purpose of this study is to assess the patient's perspective on their early activation experience. METHODS: A custom, 6-item questionnaire was administered to both adults and parents of pediatric patients who were activated within seven days of their surgery as part of their standard cochlear implant care. The questionnaire included four quantitative, Likert-style and two qualitative, open-ended questions about their activation experience. RESULTS: The study included 30 adult and three pediatric participants. Quantitative results showed that all participants (100%) found next-day activation convenient, with 94% preferring it over the traditional two-week wait. Most (79%) were surprised by the possibility of early activation, and nearly all (97%) would recommend it to others. Parents of pediatric patients echoed these sentiments, with all finding next-day activation convenient and preferable. Qualitative analysis revealed six themes: reduced travel burden, benefit of hearing sooner, general positive comments, recovery, support, and positive psychological impact. Suggested improvements are detailed. CONCLUSION: This study establishes that adult and pediatric patients who underwent early activation demonstrate benefit from and preference for early activation. Patients benefitted from reduced travel burden, earlier access to hearing in the implanted ear, and positive psychological impacts, pointing to the need to consider broad application of early activation, tailored to individual patient preferences and circumstances.
Surgical technique protocol for cochlear implantation in post-meningitic ossified cochlea.
Dutt SN, Mittal AA, Gaur SK … +1 more , Kumar A
Cochlear Implants Int · 2025 May · PMID 40613894 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Labyrinthitis ossificans is a known complication of bacterial meningitis which results in severe to profound hearing loss. Historically, labyrinthitis ossificans was considered a contraindication for cochle...
INTRODUCTION: Labyrinthitis ossificans is a known complication of bacterial meningitis which results in severe to profound hearing loss. Historically, labyrinthitis ossificans was considered a contraindication for cochlear implantation. However, with advances in technology, cochlear implantation is an accepted treatment for hearing loss in labyrinthitis ossificans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 17 cases with varying degrees of ossification in the cochlea were evaluated and treated at our tertiary referral hospital and cochlear implantation center out of a total of 832 profoundly deaf patients evaluated from January 2007 to June 2023. The etiology, radiology, intra-operative findings and treatment protocols followed in these patients are discussed. RESULTS: 15 of the 17 patients could successfully be implanted with a cochlear implant, while two were referred to another center for Auditory Brainstem Implantation. The degree/grade of ossification decided the available cochlear lumen for implantation and hence the surgical approach and choice of the electrode. CONCLUSION: A protocol for the order of choice of electrode and site of insertion in various cases of labyrinthitis ossificans depending on the degree of ossification is proposed. In the order of preference, it would be thus: 1. Cochlear implantation with the active electrode in the scala tympani of the basal turn; 2. Electrode in the scala vestibuli of the basal turn; 3. Anterograde insertion of the implant from the second turn; 4. Retrograde insertion of the implant from the second turn; 5. Insertion of a split array electrode and finally 6. Auditory brainstem implantation.
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