Methods and issues in the cochlear implantation of children: an overview

The single-electrode cochlear implant is undergoing clinical trials in children under Federal Food and Drug Administration regulations governing medical devices. Seven teams from around the United States are participating in this investigation as coinvestigators with the House Ear Institute. The clinical research program involves evaluation and selection for an implant surgery, basic guidance for fitting the device, and follow-up monitoring on a regular basis. As of December 31, 1984, 164 profoundly deaf children have received the cochlear implant. They ranged in age at time of surgery from 2 yr, 5 mo to 17 yr, 11 mo. The majority of children were deafened from bacterial meningitis (N = 98). The pertinent issues involved in the implantation of children include methods of investigation, impact of deafness, potential risks and benefits, and alternatives. While the use of the implant in children continues to be controversial, the evidence to date indicates that this prosthesis can provide significant benefit for a select population of profoundly deaf children.