The evaluation of cochlear implant users’ acoustic change detection ability

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between behaviourally acquired Acoustic Change Detection Test (ACDT) responses and electrophysiologically obtained Acoustic Change Complex (ACC) responses in participants with Cochlear Implant (CI). Methods 28 unilateral adult CI users (mean age 41) participated in the study. In behavioural test session, ACDT and speech tests were administered. In electrophysiological test session, sound onset and ACC responses of participants stimulated by/ui/speech structure were recorded and N1–P2 peak-to-peak amplitude and N1 latencies were determined. Results No significant correlation was found between individuals’ behavioural and electrophysiological responses but it was observed that individuals dived into two clusters in terms of ACDT responses (p < 0.05). A statistically significant difference was found between the mean ACC amplitudes of the clusters. No statistically significant difference was observed between the mean ACC N1 latency findings of the clusters, suggesting that ACC amplitude may be a better predictor than latency in auditory discrimination. Conclusion ACC measurement may be a potential clinical tool to evaluate auditory discrimination performance in individuals with CI, but using the electrophysiological and behavioural tests together may provide a more holistic perspective.