Sequential bilateral cochlear implantation in children: parents' perspective and device use

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Speech and Language Pathology

Background:

• Sequential bilateral cochlear implantation (CI) is increasingly common for children with prelingual deafness.
• Understanding parental expectations and device usage is crucial for successful CI rehabilitation.
• The impact of a second CI on sound localization and communication skills requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare parental expectations with postoperative observations for sequentially implanted bilateral cochlear implants.
• To assess the device usage of a second cochlear implant and compare it with unilateral implant use.

Main Methods:

• Thirty prelingually deaf children received a second cochlear implant.
• Parents completed questionnaires on expectations and observations at 12 and 24 months post-surgery.
• Device use was assessed retrospectively and compared to a matched unilateral CI user group.

Main Results:

• Parental expectations for sound localization were higher than observed changes within the first year.
• Communication and speech skills met or exceeded parental expectations.
• The second cochlear implant was worn significantly less than the first, but comparable to unilateral use.

Conclusions:

• Parental expectations regarding sound localization with bilateral CIs may be overestimated initially.
• Children may experience challenges wearing the second CI due to the dominance of the first implant.
• Realistic counseling is essential for parents considering sequential bilateral cochlear implantation.