The UCSF/Storz cochlear implant: patient performance.

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroscience

Background:

• The UCSF/Storz multichannel cochlear implant was developed to address profound hearing loss.
• This four-channel device employs simultaneous bipolar, radial stimulation and a vocoder-based speech processing strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the initial performance and efficacy of the UCSF/Storz multichannel cochlear implant.
• To assess auditory-only speech recognition and communicative function in implanted patients.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen patients were implanted with the UCSF/Storz device across four clinical centers.
• Fifteen patients received speech processors and underwent initial performance evaluations by June 1986.
• Auditory-only speech recognition and lip-reading enhancement were assessed using standardized procedures.

Main Results:

• A significant majority of patients (13 out of 15) achieved open-set auditory-only speech recognition.
• Patients demonstrated performance improvements over time, often without intensive rehabilitation.
• All implanted patients showed enhanced lip-reading abilities and self-reported improvements in general communicative function.

Conclusions:

• The UCSF/Storz multichannel cochlear implant demonstrates encouraging efficacy in restoring auditory function and improving communication.
• The device offers a viable option for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, enhancing both speech perception and lip-reading skills.