Music Appreciation in Prelingually Deafened Patients: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Objective: Music appreciation by patients with cochlear implants (CI) is affected by multiple factors. Prelingually deafened CI patients have different expectations and experiences with music that impact their music appreciation. This scoping review aims to describe the factors important for music appreciation and strategies for improved music appreciation in prelingually deafened CI recipients.

Data sources: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science.

Review methods: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were queried for articles related to music appreciation in prelingually deafened CI users. Inclusion criteria were articles describing music appreciation characteristics and strategies for patients with CIs and prelingual hearing loss. The MINORS criteria was utilized to assess the quality of the studies.

Results: Of the initial 140 citations screened, 52 articles underwent full-text review, and 32 met inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 599 unilateral and bilateral CI users with prelingual hearing loss. Average age at time of study and implantation were 11.03 and 6.36 years, respectively. Prelingually deafened patients reported increased music appreciation at baseline compared to postlingually deafened patients, but performed worse in melody, instrument, and song identification. Rhythmic music elements are especially important for music appreciation in this population. Additionally, implantation at an earlier age and music training after implantation are associated with improved identification and appreciation of musical elements.

Conclusions: Music is experienced and appreciated differently by prelingually deaf CI patients compared to those who have known acoustic listening. Early implantation and music training can significantly help improve identification of complex musical elements and overall music appreciation.

Level of evidence: Level 3.