Comparison of speech perception lists used to evaluate Japanese single syllable hearing

In Japan, the 57S and 67S single syllable lists have been used to test speech perception in cochlear implant (CI) users. However, due to advances in implants and processors, these lists have become too simple for CI users. In 2019, the Japan Otological Society created a new list, referred to as the iCI2004. The objective of this study was to compare the performance of these lists.

The Japanese single syllable speech perception tests, iCI2004, 57S, and 67S, were administered to 70 patients with CI users. The effects of single syllable characteristics on the test scores were examined. The type and number of single syllables used in each list were different. Therefore, we compared the scores for normal lists, shared single syllables, and non-shared single syllables.

The average test results were 52% for iCI2004, 64% for 57S, and 77% for 67S; 67S performed the best, followed by 57S and iCI2004. The test results were significantly different. In a comparison of shared single syllables, the average scores were 58% for iCI2004 and 63% for 57S (45 pieces). A comparison of iCI2004 and 67S (17 pieces) showed that the average scores were 63% for iCI2004 and 75% for 67S. A comparison of 57S and 67S (20 pieces) showed that the average score for 57S was 70% and the average scored for 67S was 77%. No significant differences were detected under all conditions. Based on these results, the type of single syllable adopted affected the result.

The data gives no clear indication that the selection of the word table or presentation of sound pressure affects listening to sound for CI users in Japan. Based on the type and number of single syllables used, iCI2004 seems appropriate for evaluation of hearing in patients using CI.