CINGLE-trial: cochlear implantation for siNGLE-sided deafness, a randomised controlled trial and economic evaluation

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Single-sided deafness (SSD) significantly impairs speech perception in noise, sound localization, and social interaction.
• Current treatments like Contralateral Routing of Sound (CROS) and Bone Conduction Devices (BCD) do not restore binaural hearing or significantly improve these deficits.
• Cochlear implantation (CI) presents a promising alternative for restoring binaural input and potentially overcoming SSD limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of cochlear implantation (CI) against current treatments (CROS and BCD) for single-sided deafness (SSD).
• To evaluate the impact of different treatment strategies on speech perception in noise, sound localization, tinnitus, and quality of life in SSD patients.
• To conduct an economic evaluation of CI versus CROS and BCD for SSD, informing health policy and reimbursement decisions.

Main Methods:

• A single-center Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) including 120 adult patients with SSD.
• Participants were randomized to undergo cochlear implantation (CI), or sequential treatment with Bone Conduction Devices (BCD) and Contralateral Routing of Sound (CROS).
• Outcomes including speech perception, sound localization, tinnitus, and quality of life were assessed over 60 months, alongside adverse event monitoring and economic evaluation.

Main Results:

• This section is not available in the provided abstract.

Conclusions:

• This RCT provides a direct comparison of CI with existing SSD treatments (CROS, BCD) across multiple health outcomes.
• The study will determine if the benefits of CI justify its higher cost compared to current modalities.
• Findings will inform health policy regarding the reimbursement of cochlear implantation for single-sided deafness.