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Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
Barriers to early pediatric cochlear implantation.
Michael Armstrong1, Alison Maresh, Claire Buxton
1Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|September 17, 2013
Summary
Many children with congenital sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) face delayed cochlear implant (CI) surgery. Public insurance and parental factors significantly contribute to these delays, impacting outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Audiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Universal newborn hearing screening identifies congenital sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
- Early cochlear implant (CI) intervention by 12 months improves outcomes for SNHL.
- Many children receive CIs after the recommended age.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify pre-lingual SNHL patients at risk for delayed CI implantation.
- Analyze barriers contributing to delayed CI implantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of CI recipients (2008-2012).
- Analysis of patient demographics, diagnosis age, implantation age, and SNHL etiology.
- Team member surveys to identify implantation barriers.
Main Results:
- 42 pre-lingual SNHL patients received CIs; 52% were implanted >12 months post-diagnosis.
- Public insurance linked to later SNHL diagnosis and longer CI delay.
- Parental factors (missed appointments, reluctance) were primary delay causes.
Conclusions:
- Significant delays in CI implantation for pre-lingual SNHL patients occur.
- Insurance status and parental barriers impede timely CI intervention.
- Systemic support and family education are crucial to overcome implantation delays.
