Experiences and Results from Cochlear Implantation in Patients with Long Duration of Deafness

Objective: The aim of the present study was to gauge factors that influence the outcome of cochlear implants (CI) in patients who have been deaf for an extended period. Patients and Methods: Twelve adult cases (13 ears) were operated on at the CI unit in Uppsala during the period of 2002-2013. These patients had a deafness duration ranging between 20 and 72 years in the implanted ear and severe to profound hearing loss or deafness in the other ear. Data concerning pre- and postoperative speech perception, deafness duration, hearing/deafness duration in the contralateral ear, age at implantation, intraoperative electrophysiological measurements, cause of deafness, and user status were collected. Results: Eleven of 12 patients (13 ears) benefitted from CI treatment. Conclusion: The overall hearing experience, deafness duration, and age at onset of deafness are important issues to consider prior to CI.