Improving sound localization after cochlear implantation and auditory training for the management of single-sided deafness.
OBJECTIVE
To report a successful case of cochlear implantation and auditory training for the improvement of sound localization in a patient with single-sided deafness.


METHODS
Case report and literature review.


METHODS
Tertiary referral otology practice.


METHODS
Fifty-seven-year-old man receiving cochlear implantation after 8 years of unilateral sensorineural hearing loss.


METHODS
Initially, CROS hearing aid, then osseointegrated bone conduction system and finally cochlear implantation and auditory training.


METHODS
Sound localization tests.


RESULTS
Sound localization tests after CI and auditory training showed improvement when compared with testing performed after fitting of an osseointegrated bone conduction system.


CONCLUSIONS
Cochlear implantation followed by 3 months of auditory training may have improved sound localization in this patient with single-sided deafness. Further case-controlled studies need to be undertaken to ascertain whether CI alone without formal auditory training will promote the same results.
*Department of Otolaryngology, St George/Sutherland Public Hospital, Sydney; †Healthy Hearing & Balance Care; and ‡Department of Human Sciences, Macquarie University, New South Wales, Australia.
Sameerah
S
Nawaz
Celene
C
McNeill
Simon L
SL
Greenberg
D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000379:methods; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D003638:Deafness / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006319:Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D046088:Hearing Loss, Unilateral / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013017:Sound Localization / Q000502:physiology*; D013067:Speech Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome