Hearing performance as a predictor of postural recovery in cochlear implant users

Mario Edvin Greters,Roseli Saraiva Moreira Bittar,Signe Schuster Grasel,Jeanne Oiticica,Ricardo Ferreira Bento

doi:10.1016/j.bjorl.2016.01.002

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate if hearing performance is a predictor of postural control in cochlear implant (CI) users at least six months after surgery. MethodsCross-sectional study including (CI) recipients with post-lingual deafness and controls who were divided into the following groups: nine CI users with good hearing performance (G+), five CI users with poor hearing performance (G−), and seven controls (CG). For each patient, computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) tests, a sensory organization test (SOT), and an adaptation test (ADT) were applied as dual task performance, with first test (FT) and re-test (RT) on the same day, including a 40–60min interval between them to evaluate the short-term learning ability on postural recovery strategies. The results of the groups were compared. ResultsComparing the dual task performance on CDP and the weighted average between all test conditions, the G+ group showed better performance on RT in SOT4, SOT5, SOT6, and CS, which was not observed for G− and CG. The G− group had significantly lower levels of short-term learning ability than the other two groups in SOT5 (p=0.021), SOT6 (p=0.025), and CS (p=0.031). ConclusionThe CI users with good hearing performance had a higher index of postural recovery when compared to CI users with poor hearing performance.

Highlights

Cognitive resources from the right cerebral hemisphere significantly contribute to postural control
In a previous study performed at the present clinic with cochlear implant (CI) users, a significant increase was found in P3 latency in patients with post-lingual deafness due to meningitis, suggesting an impairment of cognitive function
This study aimed to evaluate whether hearing performance is a predictor of postural control in CI users at least six months after surgery

Summary

Introduction

Cognitive resources from the right cerebral hemisphere significantly contribute to postural control. The assessment of adults with vestibular disorders showed that implementation of mental tasks during the performance of the platform test can both increase or reduce subject oscillations and body balance control.[1] Working memory, short-term memory, and executive function are frequently and more highly disturbed in those stricken by bacterial meningitis.[2] In a previous study performed at the present clinic with cochlear implant (CI) users (study submitted), a significant increase was found in P3 latency in patients with post-lingual deafness due to meningitis, suggesting an impairment of cognitive function. Postural adjustments necessary for balance stability result from complex motor responses, learned motor tasks, and proactive and feedforward postural strategies.[4]

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Conclusion