Cochlear Implant and the risk of falls: a long-term evaluation

Abstract

Introduction: A potential risk after cochlear implantation (CI) is the development of vertigo. In view of the extended indication and also implantation in older patients, the development of vertigo is a relevant factor for postoperative management. In association with vertigo is the risk of falls. The current study aimed to investigate the long-term follow-up of the risk of falls after CI. Methods: In a prospective clinical study, 25 adult patients CI candidates were included. Postural control and stability were assessed using the mobile posturography device (Vertiguard®). The posturography determines the body sway forward-to-backward, as well as side-to-side in degrees per second. The patients underwent before surgery, 3-5 days and 4-6 weeks after the Standard Balance Deficit Test or the geriatric Standard Balance Deficit Test (for patients older than 60 years). The risk of falls was calculated in comparison with age-and gender-specific norm values. Results: The mean preoperative risk of falls was 47%, directly postoperative 49%, and after 6 weeks 43%. The risk of falls after 6 weeks was, compared to before surgery, significant lower. Conclusions: At all the measured time periods, the risk of falls was in average higher than for a healthy population (> 40%). There was no significant difference in fall risk directly after CI, but 6 weeks after there was a significant improvement. Possible explanations are central compensation mechanisms and the effect of practice. The influence of hearing rehabilitation with activated cochlear implant on the risk of falls is planned in another project.