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Position Statement: Cochlear Implantation for Single Sided Deafness in Children

Position Statement: Cochlear Implantation for Single Sided Deafness in Children

Children with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss experience problems with sound localization, speech perception in noise, and increased auditory effort due to loss of binaural cues. This is particularly detrimental as they are still learning language, frequently in noisy classrooms, and their loss is associated with increased risks of failing a grade, behavioral issues, and speech delay. Restoration of true binaural hearing can only be accomplished with a cochlear implant, and use of a cochlear implant has demonstrated marked improvements in localization, speech perception in noise and auditory effort in these children. Selected children, as early as 9 months of age, should undergo cochlear implantation as soon as hearing loss and appropriate anatomy is verified to avoid missing a developmental window that permits integration of binaural cues. It is the position of the AAO-HNS that cochlear implantation is an appropriate management option for rehabilitation of unilateral sensorineural hearing loss in appropriately selected children.

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