Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
[The impact of cochlear implants on the quality of life of patients with single-sided deafness]
1Funktionsbereich Audiologie, Univ.-HNO-Klinik Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
Background:
Unilaterally deaf patients are increasingly supplied with a cochlear implant (CI). In the present study the change in quality of life following implantation was investigated.
Patients And Methods:
The study comprised 20 postlingual CI recipients with single-sided deafness, who were divided into two groups: "normal hearing" (group 1) and "moderate impairment" (group 2) contralaterally. Their quality of life was determined using four standardized questionnaires (NCIQ, HPS, APHAB, HHIE) and a visual analogue scale.
Results:
With the exception of the sensation of loud everyday sounds (APHAB AV scale) reported by patients from group 2, all study participants benefited significantly from the implantation.
Discussion:
The problems caused by the aversiveness of loud everyday sounds can be explained by the enhanced transmission of high frequencies and the associated unfamiliar sensations by the CI system. The effects of deafness duration and response shift remain to be investigated.
Conclusion:
Cochlear implantation for unilaterally deaf patients was found to be a legitimate and meaningful rehabilitation measure.
