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Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
Psychophysically based site selection coupled with dichotic stimulation improves speech recognition in noise with
1Kresge Hearing Research Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5616, USA. nzhoujo@umich.edu
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|August 17, 2012
Summary
Optimizing speech processor maps for cochlear implant users by removing poorly performing stimulation sites significantly improved speech recognition in noise. This strategy enhances performance for individuals with multichannel implants.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electrical stimulation perception varies across sites in multichannel implants.
- Optimizing speech processor maps (MAPs) is crucial for bilateral cochlear implant users.
- Identifying and excluding sites with poor psychophysical performance can enhance implant function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize speech processor MAPs for bilateral cochlear implant users.
- To identify and remove stimulation sites with poor psychophysical performance.
- To evaluate the impact of optimized MAPs on speech recognition in noise.
Main Methods:
- Psychophysical assessment including amplitude-modulation detection and channel interaction.
- Creation of three experimental MAPs based on individual psychophysical data.
- Comparison of experimental MAPs against everyday-use clinical MAPs in 8 subjects.
Main Results:
- Experimental MAPs improved mean psychophysical acuity across the electrode array.
- All subjects demonstrated improved speech recognition in noise with at least one experimental MAP.
- A dichotic experimental MAP significantly improved phoneme and sentence recognition in noise for most subjects.
Conclusions:
- Site-selection strategies based on psychophysical performance are effective tools for optimizing cochlear implant MAPs.
- Improved psychophysical acuity and balanced site distribution enhance speech recognition in noise.
- These findings provide valuable insights for improving auditory rehabilitation in cochlear implant recipients.
