Speech processor upgrade increases speech comprehension in patients with cochlear implants

Abstract

Hearing rehabilitation of patients with severe hearing loss by cochlear implant (CI) enhances their opportunities for communication immensely with regard to their normal-hearing social environment. The degree of participation depends decisively on speech discrimination. This study examines whether speech discrimination can be improved by equipping patients with next-generation speech processors (SP). The changes in speech discrimination of 420CI patients upon receiving anewer SP from 2003-2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Audiometry comprised the Freiburg number and monosyllable tests and the Oldenburg sentence test in quiet and noise, with apresentation volume of 70 dB. In all audiometric tests, the newer SP showed asignificant improvement compared to the preceding SP. This improvement was attainable for the majority of patients and was independent of age. Upgrade of the SP results in improved speech discrimination. This holds true for several test settings. We therefore recommend earlier upgrades and that the costs for new SP be met.