Experiences and Results from Cochlear Implantation in Patients with Long Duration of Deafness

Abstract

<b><i>Objective:</i></b> The aim of the present study was to gauge factors that influence the outcome of cochlear implants (CI) in patients who have been deaf for an extended period. <b><i>Patients and Methods:</i></b> Twelve adult cases (13 ears) were operated on at the CI unit in Uppsala during the period of 2002-2013. These patients had a deafness duration ranging between 20 and 72 years in the implanted ear and severe to profound hearing loss or deafness in the other ear. Data concerning pre- and postoperative speech perception, deafness duration, hearing/deafness duration in the contralateral ear, age at implantation, intraoperative electrophysiological measurements, cause of deafness, and user status were collected. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Eleven of 12 patients (13 ears) benefitted from CI treatment. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The overall hearing experience, deafness duration, and age at onset of deafness are important issues to consider prior to CI.