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Cochlear implantation in children
M A Bray1, M W Neault, M Kenna
1Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Disorders, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Insights
Cochlear implantation is a proven option for children with profound hearing loss, enabling language development. Success requires careful patient selection, extensive rehabilitation, and a dedicated interdisciplinary team.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric audiology
- Otolaryngology
- Speech-language pathology
Background:
- Cochlear implantation for children is established practice since FDA approval in 1990.
- It offers a viable solution for selected pediatric cases of profound hearing loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the considerations for pediatric cochlear implantation.
- To emphasize the necessity of comprehensive pre-surgical and post-surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Review of established protocols and outcomes in pediatric cochlear implantation.
- Highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary team collaboration.
Main Results:
- Cochlear implantation can lead to significant language development in appropriate pediatric candidates.
- It does not cure deafness or restore normal hearing; candidacy is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Successful pediatric cochlear implantation relies on rigorous evaluation, selection, and long-term rehabilitation.
- A multidisciplinary team approach is vital for optimal outcomes in pediatric hearing loss management.
Abstract:
Cochlear implantation in the pediatric population is no longer considered experimental practice since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Nucleus 22 Channel cochlear implant in 1990. Today, cochlear implantation is a viable option for selected children with profound hearing loss to achieve potential language development. Not every child is a candidate, however, nor can implantation rectify the underlying cause of deafness or restore normal hearing function. For successful outcomes in proper candidates, rigorous pre-surgical evaluation and screening followed by long-term rehabilitation and education are necessary for both child and family. The close collaboration of an interdisciplinary team is essential throughout the process.