Publication trends in cochlear implantation outcome measures

Abstract Objective To review trends in outcome domains and instruments reported by modern researchers in 100 consecutively published articles on cochlear implantation (CI). Methods Retrograde literature review of Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Databases of 100 consecutive scientific publications. Outcome domains and instruments from each included study were extracted in categories: speech perception, speech development, sound perception, electrophysiological and quality of life. Results 61 studies met inclusion criteria. 84 outcome measures were reported in total across all 61 studies. Across the 42 studies reporting speech perception, 31 different measures were utilised. Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP) and Consonant Nucleus Consonant (CNC) were the most frequently used instruments. Nine studies reported speech development, with 11 different instruments used. Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR) was most frequently used instrument. Sixteen studies reported on sound perception, with Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) being the most frequently used instrument. Eleven studies reported six different electrophysiological instruments, with Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) being used most frequently used. Two studies measured quality of life outcome, with three instruments used. Conclusion This study confirms a large degree of CI outcome heterogeneity within the peer reviewed literature. Determining consensus on core outcome domains and recommended instruments may increase the future impact and generalisability of work undertaken.