Extended indications of cochlear implantation

Abstract

Learning Objectives: The primary goal of the panel is to focus on extending indications for cochlear implantation in electric acoustic stimulation in children and postlingual adults, single sided and asymmetric hearing loss adults and children and to discuss cognitive capabilities in older cochlear implant candidates. The last decade cochlear implantation was not only indicated for bilateral profoundly deaf patients, but the indications expanded to other groups op patients with an auditory handicap. Advances in surgical technique, insights into physiopathology, viewpoints on outcome measures and technological innovations allowed clinical trials to demonstrate benefits for patients with substantial residual hearing. The primary goal of the panel is to focus on these groups of patients. An introductory lecture will be followed by a panel discussion specifically on the following topics: Electric acoustic stimulation and structure preserving cochlear implant surgery in children introduced by Gunesh Rajan. Partial Deafness Treatment in adults and what are the limits of residual hearing introduced by Piotr Skarzynski. Cochlear Implantation in Single sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss introduced by Susan Arndt. A last topic which gained attention concerns Cochlear Implantation in elderly and the relation with cognitive functioning introduced by Paul Van de Heyning. An emerging issue is the viewpoint of the care providers and insurers asking for evidence at the level of participation. Therefor outcome measures have to include also quality of life measures. The panel discussion will lead towards a consenus on the different outcome aspects consisting of: Auditory test e.g. speech in noise. Hearing impairment quality of life e.g. SSQ. Directional hearing to ascertain central auditory integration. Hours of use per day as a measure of experienced benefit. Influence on participation (WHO handicap approach). Clinical test for cognitive assessment of older in cochlear implant candidates.