Single-channel to multichannel conversions in adult cochlear implant subjects.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to compare open-set speech perception of single-channel with multichannel cochlear implants in the same ear of postlingually deafened adults.


METHODS
The study design was a retrospective case and literature review.


METHODS
The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center with an associated veterans administration hospital.


METHODS
Postlingually deafened adults with at least 6 months of experience with a single-channel cochlear implant were studied.


METHODS
Replacement of a single-channel with a multichannel cochlear implant in the same ear was performed.


METHODS
Open-set word and sentence perception scores at least 6 months after single-channel implantation and multichannel reimplantation were measured.


RESULTS
Six of six patients had substantial improvement in open-set speech recognition after reimplantation of the same ear.


CONCLUSIONS
Removal of a functioning single-channel implant and replacement with a multichannel device are appropriate in postlingually deafened adults who desire better speech recognition.
Rubinstein
J T
JT
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, USA.
Parkinson
W S
WS
Lowder
M W
MW
Gantz
B J
BJ
Nadol
J B
JB
Tyler
R S
RS
D000328:Adult; D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000295:instrumentation; D003638:Deafness / Q000601:surgery*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012086:Reoperation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013069:Speech Reception Threshold Test; D013136:Spiral Ganglion / Q000473:pathology; D013701:Temporal Bone / Q000473:pathology