Hearing Preservation after Cochlear Implantation: UNICAMP Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Audiology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS) is a viable option for individuals with low-frequency residual hearing and insufficient hearing aid benefit.
• Preservation of residual hearing during cochlear implant (CI) surgery is crucial for effective EAS outcomes.
• The study addresses the need for improved surgical techniques to maintain hearing in EAS candidates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel surgical technique and atraumatic electrode for preserving residual hearing in EAS candidates.
• To assess the impact of cochlear implantation on speech perception and tinnitus in subjects undergoing EAS.
• To gauge patient satisfaction with EAS after at least one year of device use.

Main Methods:

• Six subjects received cochlear implants using a specialized surgical approach and atraumatic electrode.
• Residual hearing was monitored at three postoperative intervals, with long-term assessment after one year.
• Speech perception was evaluated using a sentence test in quiet, both pre- and post-surgery.
• Subjective patient responses regarding EAS/CI experience were collected after one year.

Main Results:

• Four out of six subjects experienced total or partial preservation of their residual hearing.
• All subjects demonstrated improvements in hearing and speech perception following cochlear implantation.
• Tinnitus was reduced or eliminated in all four subjects who reported preoperative tinnitus.
• Five subjects reported high levels of satisfaction with their EAS device.

Conclusions:

• The surgical technique shows potential for residual hearing preservation in EAS candidates.
• Further experience with the surgical technique may lead to increased rates of hearing preservation.
• The study aims to promote awareness and adoption of EAS in Brazil and Latin/South America.