New Developments in Cochlear Implantation

Progressive improvement in the outcomes achieved with cochlear implantation (CI) has resulted in dramatic changes to CI candidacy. Patients with less than severe to profound hearing loss, asymmetric loss and even single sided deafness now have the potential to benefit from CI. Assessment of recipient outcomes as well as potential candidates continues to evolve to allow evidence based recommendation for implantation. This paper will discuss these changes as well as the associated developments in CI technology. Whilst CI has become a routine intervention, it remains a challenge to ensure that all recipients receive optimal electrode placement, with preservation of residual acoustic hearing where possible. Also that they receive effective mapping and long term access to clinic support. Technology aimed at facilitating all aspects of the CI process continues to evolve. The benefit of early CI is well recognized in children and the benefits in the elderly population are now being assessed with particular interest in the effect on cognitive decline.