Long-Term Cochlear Implant Sound Processor Usage in Children with Single-Sided Deafness.

Abstract

To assess cochlear implant (CI) sound processor usage over time in children with single-sided deafness (SSD) and identify factors influencing device use. Retrospective, chart review study. Pediatric tertiary referral center. Children with SSD who received CI between 2014 and 2020. Primary outcome was average daily CI sound processor usage over follow-up. Fifteen children with SSD who underwent CI surgery were categorized based on age of diagnosis and surgery timing. Over an average of 4.3-year follow-up, patients averaged 4.6 hours/day of CI usage. Declining usage trends were noted over time, with the first 2 years postactivation showing higher rates. No significant usage differences emerged based on age, surgery timing, or hearing loss etiology. Long-term usage decline necessitates further research into barriers and enablers for continued CI use in pediatric SSD cases.