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Control of speech and voice in cochlear implant patients
Author(s) -
Gautam Anirudh,
Naples James G.,
Eliades Steven J.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.27787
Subject(s) - cochlear implant , audiology , speech production , medicine , cochlear implantation , speech perception , loudness , speech recognition , psychology , computer science , perception , neuroscience
Objective Hearing plays an important role in the learning and production of speech, but the benefits of cochlear implantation for such vocal control are unclear. Here, we present a perspective and review of recent work on the control of speech and voice following cochlear implantation. We further discuss insights provided on the mechanisms of normal vocal control and implications for future rehabilitative approaches. Data Sources Peer‐reviewed articles on speech and voice production in cochlear implant patients were identified from PUBMED. Relevant articles were supplemented with selected publications describing normal vocal control mechanisms and behaviors. Review Methods Publications that discussed speech and voice outcomes following cochlear implantation were chosen, with a focus on those presenting measurements of specific speech or voice parameters. Results Recent studies demonstrate that hearing restoration by cochlear implantation has significant effects on many aspects of voice and speech production. These include changes in vocal pitch and loudness, as well as improved control of both vowels and consonants. Despite these improvements, however, the speech of many implant recipients remains abnormal as compared to normal hearing individuals. Such differences likely result from the impoverished auditory feedback provided by the implant. Conclusions Cochlear implants provide valuable insights into the role of hearing in vocal production. Although implants improve vocal production for most patients, there remains considerable room for future study and therapeutic improvement. Laryngoscope , 129:2158–2163, 2019