Matthew McCall, Janitha Jayawardana, Jill Mustard, Joanne Lake, John Pearson, Philip Bird
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction: Research suggests deaf children who receive cochlear implants (CIs) at an early age can achieve age-appropriate language. Recent studies suggest age at full-time CI use is a better predictor of language outcomes than age at implant. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there are correlations between age at implantation, establishing consistent device use, and language outcomes in a cohort of young children in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted. The study included 46 participants, implanted by the Southern Cochlear Implant Programme by age 18 months. The median age at implant was 8 months. Device use was measured via data logging. Consistent device use was defined as ≥8 h per day. Language outcomes were measured at 2- and 3-year post-implantation using PLS-5.
Results: Consistent use was established by 78.3% by 3 years. Language results were at least one SD higher for children who achieved consistent use within 2 years of implant. Language scores for Maori children were more than one SD lower than non-Maori, a finding not entirely explained by less usage. There was no correlation between age of implantation and length of time to consistent device use. The presence of additional disabilities affected consistent device use.
Conclusion: Simply offering CIs earlier is not sufficient to improve language outcomes in the congenitally deaf population. Earlier consistent use was associated with better language outcomes for those implanted before 18 months of age, and language scores were higher for children who achieved consistent use within 2 years of implantation. There is a need to understand why children with pre-lingual deafness may not be achieving consistent device use, and by doing so, we would be a step closer to being able to tailor culturally appropriate supports and services that could help more children achieve better outcomes.
期刊介绍:
''Audiology and Neurotology'' provides a forum for the publication of the most-advanced and rigorous scientific research related to the basic science and clinical aspects of the auditory and vestibular system and diseases of the ear. This journal seeks submission of cutting edge research opening up new and innovative fields of study that may improve our understanding and treatment of patients with disorders of the auditory and vestibular systems, their central connections and their perception in the central nervous system. In addition to original papers the journal also offers invited review articles on current topics written by leading experts in the field. The journal is of primary importance for all scientists and practitioners interested in audiology, otology and neurotology, auditory neurosciences and related disciplines.