Vestibular function following unilateral cochlear implantation for profound sensorineural hearing loss

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Neuroscience
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) affects many Canadians, with severe cases often poorly managed by hearing aids.
• Cochlear implants (CI) are effective for hearing rehabilitation but raise concerns about vestibular and balance effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effects of unilateral cochlear implantation (CI) on vestibular and balance function in adults with post-lingual deafness.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study included 12 patients, assessed pre-operatively and at 1 week and 1 month post-surgery.
• Evaluations included the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV), and Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) tests.
• Testing was performed with and without the CI activated, as applicable.

Main Results:

• While many patients showed pre-existing or post-operative SVV deviations, no statistically significant changes were observed.
• No significant changes were found in DHI or TUG test scores, despite some individual patient improvements or worsening in DHI.

Conclusions:

• This pilot study suggests CI surgery and implant activity do not influence vestibular or balance function.
• The study is underpowered; larger patient cohorts are required to validate these preliminary findings.