Authors

Bavin, E. L., Sarant, J., Hackworth, Naomi. J., Bennetts, S. K., Buzhardt, J., Jia, F., Button, E., Busby, P., Leigh, G., & Peterson, C.

Journal

Journal of Child Language, vol/issue: 47/4, pages: 796–816

Link

https://doi.org/10.1017/S0305000919000941

Abstract

For children with normal hearing (NH), early communication skills predict vocabulary, a precursor to grammar. Growth in early communication skills of infants with cochlear implants (CIs) was investigated using the Early Communication Indicator (ECI), a play-based observation measure.

Multilevel linear growth modelling on data from six ECI sessions held at three-monthly intervals revealed significant growth overall, with a non-significant slower growth rate than that of children with NH (comparison age centred at 18 months). Analyses of gesture use and of nonword vocalisations revealed the CI group used significantly more of each, with more rapid growth. In contrast, the CI group used significantly fewer single words and multiword utterances, and with slower growth.

Maternal education and time to achieve consistent CI use impacted significantly on growth for the CI sample. The results indicate that progression to vocabulary by young CI users can be supported by encouraging their use of prelinguistic communication.

Authors

Birman, C. S., & Sanli, H.

Journal

Otology & Neurotology, vol/issue: 41(4), pages: e458–e463

Link

https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000002574

Abstract

Objective: To compare the speech perception outcomes for patients with preoperative severe versus profound hearing loss with a cochlear implant (CI).

Study Design: Retrospective patient review.

Setting: Cochlear implant program.

Patients: Cochlear implant adult recipients (16 yr and above) having surgery between 2008 and 2015 with speech perception results and four frequency averaged severe (70-89 dBHL) or profound (90 dBHL and above) hearing loss. Prelingual deaf adults were included in the data.

Intervention: Cochlear implant.

Main Outcome Measures: Speech perception scores with CUNY sentences and monosyllabic (CNC/CVC) word scores at preoperative and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively testing. Mann-Whitney U test was performed to compare outcomes of the two groups. Interquartile comparisons were also made.

Results: The severe group had significantly better speech perception than the profound hearing loss group for CUNY sentences and CNC/CVC word scores preoperatively (p < 0.001) (p < 0.001), at 6 months (p < 0.001) (p < 0.001), and at 12 months (p < 0.01) (p < 0.001), respectively. At 3 months there was no significant difference. The number of patients in each severe or profound group at the different time points ranged from 92 to 367 patients for CUNY sentences and from 52 to 216 patients for the word scores. The 12 months' lower quartile score for CUNY sentences for severe and profound groups was 83% and 75% respectively. The lower quartile score for words was 32% and 26% respectively.

Conclusion: Adult CI recipients showed marked improvements in speech perception with a CI. Those with severe hearing loss have significantly better outcomes compared with profound hearing loss patients. These outcomes can inform CI candidacy evaluation criteria.

Authors

Briggs, R., O ’Leary, S., Birman, C., Plant, K., English, R., Dawson, P., Risi, F., Gavrilis, J., Needham, K., & Cowan, R.

Journal

Hearing Research, page 390

Link

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heares.2020.107924

Abstract

Objective: To compare the difference in electrode impedance across discrete time points to 24 months post-activation for two groups of adult cochlear implant recipients, one using an investigational perimodiolar (Contour Advance®) array augmented with 40% concentration weight per weight (w/w) dexamethasone (the Drug Eluting Electrode, ‘DEE’ Group), and the other the commercially available Contour Advance (’Control’ Group).

Design: Ten adult subjects were implanted with the DEE and fourteen with the Control. Electrode impedances were measured intra-operatively, one-week post-surgery, at initial activation (approximately two-weeks post-surgery), and at approximately one, three, six, 12 and 24 months post-activation. Two different impedance measurements were obtained: 1) in MP1+2 mode using Custom Sound programming software; and 2) 4-point impedance measures utilising BP+2 stimulation mode with recording on non-stimulating electrodes. Data were analysed with respect to both impedance averaged across all electrodes, and impedance for electrodes grouped into basal, middle and apical sections.

Results: Group mean MP1+2 impedance for the DEE was significantly lower than for the Control at all post-operative time points examined, and for each of the basal, middle and apical cochlear regions. Group mean 4-point impedance was significantly lower for the DEE than the Control in the basal region at six, 12 and 24 months post-activation and in the middle region at 12- and 24-months post-activation. The pattern of change in MP1+2 impedance differed significantly in the early post-operative period prior to device activation. A significant 4.8 kOhm reduction in impedance between surgery and one-week was observed for the DEE group but not for the Control. A 2.0 kOhm increase between the one and two week post-operative time points was observed for the Control but not for the DEE group.

Conclusion: While rates of adoption of different surgical approaches differed between the groups and this may have had a confounding effect, the results suggest that passive elution of dexamethasone from the investigational device was associated with a change in the intracochlear environment following surgical implantation of the electrode array, as evidenced by the lower electrode impedance measures.

Authors

Carr, G., & Smith, T.

Journal

British Association of Teachers of the Deaf Magazine, vol/issue: March, 2020, pages: 51–59

Authors

Ching, T. Y. C., & Leigh, G.

Journal

Hearing, Balance & Communication, vol/issue: 18(4), pages: 215–224

Link

https://doi.org/10.1080/21695717.2020.1846923

Abstract

Objective: In this paper, we draw on evidence to address the impact of earlier identification of congenital hearing loss through universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) and the associated earlier access to interventions including cochlear implant (CI) technology on outcomes of children with hearing loss.

Methods: Data from the Longitudinal Outcomes of Children with Hearing Impairment (LOCHI) study were analysed to examine the impact of UNHS and earlier intervention on language outcomes. The LOCHI study includes more than 450 deaf and hard of hearing Australian children whose hearing losses were identified variously through newborn hearing screening or later paths to confirmation and intervention.

Results: Seventy-two percent of the screened group received hearing aid fitting before 6 months of age, which more than doubled the 32% in the non-screened group. On average, children who received earlier intervention achieved language at age 5 years commensurate with their typically developing peers. Children who do not have disabilities in addition to hearing loss and received their first CIs before age 12 months achieved language scores within the range of typically developing peers.

Conclusion: Newborn hearing screening led to earlier intervention. Children who received earlier intervention achieved better outcomes than those who received later intervention.

Authors

Da Cruz, M

Journal

Medicine Today, vol/issue: 21(4), pages: 26–31

Link

https://medicinetoday.com.au/2020/april/feature-article/hearing-loss-adults-%E2%80%93-common-condition-associated-cognitive-decline

Abstract

Hearing loss is a common condition that greatly impacts a patient’s communication, mood and quality of life. The relationship between hearing loss and cognition is increasingly defined. New self-administered hearing tests are available for earlier detection of hearing loss. Hearing aids are an effective treatment for mild-to-moderate hearing loss and surgical options may be available for patients with conductive hearing loss.

Key points

• Hearing loss is common in the community and increases with age. Mild-to-moderate hearing loss affects one in five adults by the age of 50 years.
• Moderate-to-severe hearing loss has a measurable impact on quality of life, employability and, in the elderly, independent living and cognitive decline.
• Hearing loss is best classified as conductive, sensory neural or mixed. This simple classification guides the clinical evaluation, range of available treatments and response to treatment.
• Online and self-administered tests of hearing are useful for screening.
• History, otoscopy and tuning fork tests allow most causes of hearing loss to be diagnosed, allowing a management plan to be formulated.

Authors

Ebrahimi-Madiseh, A., Eikelboom, R. H., Bennett, R. J., Upson, G. S., Friedland, P. L., Swanepoel, D. W., Psarros, C., Lai, W. K., & Atlas, M. D.

Journal

Ear & Hearing, vol/issue: 41(6), pages: 1752–1763

Link

https://doi.org/10.1097/AUD.0000000000000895

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the factors influencing the uptake of cochlear implants in adults, determine the impact of each factor, and to conceptualize the journey to implantation from a multistakeholder perspective.

Design: Concept mapping was used to integrate input from multiple stakeholders, each with their own experience and expertise. This mixed participatory method collects qualitative and quantitative data collection and enables further quantitative analysis. There were two participant cohorts: clients (cochlear implant recipients, candidates, and family members) and professionals (cochlear implant audiologists, ear, nose, and throat surgeons, administration staff, managers. and manufacturer representatives). A total of 93 people participated in the study: client cohort (n = 60, M age = 66.60 years) and professional cohort (n = 33, M age = 45.24 years). Participants brainstormed statements in response to the question “What influences people’s decision to get/not get a cochlear implant?” They subsequently grouped the statements and named each group. They rated each statement as to its impact on the decision and prioritized the need for each to be changed/improved using a five-point Likert scale. Multidimensional scaling was used to produce a visual representation of the ideas and their relationship in the form of concepts. Further analysis was conducted to determine the differences between the cohorts, subcohorts, and concepts.

Results: One hundred ten unique statements were generated and grouped into six concepts which either directly affected the client or their environment. These concepts were: external influences (awareness and attitude of non-implant professionals about uptake, cost, logistics, the referral pathway, public awareness); uncertainties, beliefs, and fears (fears, negative effect of word of mouth, unsuccessful previous ear surgery, cosmetics of the device, misunderstanding of how a cochlear implant functions, eligibility for an implant and outcomes after implantation); health problems (mental and physical health); hearing difficulties (social, emotional, and communication impacts of hearing loss, severity of hearing loss, benefit from and experience with hearing aids); implant professionals (implant team’s attitude, knowledge and relationship with clients, quality of overall service); and goals and support (clients ’hearing desires and goals, motivation, positive impact of word of mouth, family support, having a cochlear implant mentor. The six concepts fell into two overarching domains: the client-driven domain with four concepts and the external domain with two concepts. The mean rating of concepts in terms of impact on a client’s decision to get an implant ranged from 2.24 (external influences, the main barrier) to 4.45 (goals and support, the main driver). Ratings significantly differed between the client and professional cohorts.

Conclusions: This study increases our understanding of the factors, which influence a client’s decision choose a cochlear implant as a hearing treatment. It also provides new information on the influence of the other stakeholders on the client journey. The magnitude of the generated statements in the client-driven domain highlights the pivotal role of individualized care in clinical settings in influencing a client’s decision and the need for the professionals to understand a client’s needs and expectations. A client’s persistent hearing difficulties, goals, and support network were identified as drivers to the uptake of cochlear implants. However, the barriers identified highlight the need for a collaborative multi- and interdisciplinary approach to raise awareness in and educate non-implant hearing professionals about the cochlear implant process, as well as providing information to empower clients to make educated decisions and consider a cochlear implant as a hearing management option.

Authors

Kapterian, I., Koh, L. H., Onikul, E., Kellie, S. J., & Birman, C. S.

Journal

ANZ Journal of Surgery, vol/issue: 90(3), pages: 378–379

Link

https://doi.org/10.1111/ans.15136

Authors

Lo, C. Y., Looi, V., Thompson, W. F., & McMahon, C. M.

Journal

Journal of Speech, Language & Hearing Research, vol/issue: 63(6), pages: 1990–2015

Link

https://doi.org/10.1044/2020_JSLHR-19-00391

Abstract

Purpose: A growing body of evidence suggests that long-term music training provides benefits to auditory abilities for typical-hearing adults and children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how music training may provide perceptual benefits (such as speech-in-noise, spectral resolution, and prosody) for children with hearing loss.

Method: Fourteen children aged 6–9 years with prelingual sensorineural hearing loss using bilateral cochlear implants, bilateral hearing aids, or bimodal configuration participated in a 12-week music training program, with nine participants completing the full testing requirements of the music training. Activities included weekly group-based music therapy and take-home music apps three times a week. The design was a pseudorandomized, longitudinal study (half the cohort was wait-listed, initially serving as a passive control group prior to music training). The test battery consisted of tasks related to music perception, music appreciation, and speech perception. As a comparison, 16 age-matched children with typical hearing also completed this test battery, but without participation in the music training.

Results: There were no changes for any outcomes for the passive control group. After music training, perception of speech-in-noise, question/statement prosody, musical timbre, and spectral resolution improved significantly, as did measures of music appreciation. There were no benefits for emotional prosody or pitch perception.

Conclusion: The findings suggest even a modest amount of music training has benefits for music and speech outcomes. These preliminary results provide further evidence that music training is a suitable complementary means of habilitation to improve the outcomes for children with hearing loss.

Authors

Matifoll, J.-A. P., Wilson, M., Goetti, R., Birman, C., Bennett, B., Peadon, E., Prats-Uribe, A., & Prelog, K.

Journal

American Journal of Neuroradiology, vol/issue: 41(6), pages: 1087–1093

Link

https://doi.org/10.3174/ajnr.A6541

Abstract

X-linked deafness-2 (DFNX2) is an X-linked recessive disorder characterized by profound sensorineural hearing loss and a pathognomonic temporal bone deformity. Because hypothalamic malformations associated with DFNX2 have been rarely described, we aimed to further describe these lesions and compare them with features of a nonaffected population. All patients diagnosed with DFNX2 between 2006 and 2019 were included and compared with age-matched patients with normal MR imaging findings and without hypothalamic dysfunction.

MR imaging features differing between groups were selected to help identify DFNX2. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for these features. Agreement among 3 radiologists was quantified using the index κ. Information on the presence or absence of gelastic seizures, precocious puberty, or delayed puberty was also gathered.

We selected distinctive MR imaging features of hypothalamic malformations in DFNX2. The feature selected on axial T2 images was the folded appearance of the ventromedial hypothalamus (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 95.8%) characterized by an abnormal internal/external cleft (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 95.7%). On coronal T2, the first distinctive feature was a concave morphology of the medial eminence (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 97.1%), the second feature was at least 1 hypothalamic-septum angle ≥90° (sensitivity, 90%; specificity, 72.5%), and the third feature was a forebrain-hypothalamic craniocaudal length of ≥6 mm (sensitivity, 70%; specificity, 79.7%).

Clinical features were also distinctive because 9 patients with DFNX2 did not present with gelastic seizures or precocious puberty. One patient had delayed puberty. The κ index and intraclass correlation coefficient ranged between 0.78 and 0.95. Imaging and clinical features of the hypothalamus suggest that there is a hypothalamic malformation associated with DFNX2. Early assessment for pubertal delay is proposed.

Authors

McCarthy, M., Leigh, G., & Arthur-Kelly, M.

Journal

Journal of Deaf Studies & Deaf Education, vol/issue: 25(1), pages: 33–42

Link

https://doi.org/10.1093/deafed/enz037

Abstract

Telepractice—specifically, the use of high-speed internet and interactive videoconferencing technology to deliver real-time audio and video communications between the family and the practitioner—is gaining acceptance as an alternative means of providing family-centered early intervention to families of children who are deaf and hard of hearing.

This study examined whether caregivers’ reported perceptions of self-efficacy and involvement differed when early intervention was delivered in-person and through telepractice. The Scale of Parental Involvement and Self-Efficacy (SPISE) was used to evaluate perceptions of two groups of caregivers: one that received early intervention in-person (n = 100) and a group who received services through telepractice (n = 41).

Results indicated that mode of delivery of services was not related to caregivers’ perceptions of their self-efficacy or involvement. Further analysis revealed that although certain caregiver or child characteristics did influence some aspects of caregivers’ beliefs about their self-efficacy or involvement, the effect of those variables was similar across both modes of delivery.

Author

Newall, P

Journal

Audiology Now, page: 79

Authors

Tabibi, S., Kegel, A., Lai, W. K., & Dillier, N.

Journal

Hearing Research, page: 388

Link

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heares.2020.107885

Abstract

A bio-inspired coding (BIC) strategy was implemented in this study with the goal of better representation of spectral and temporal information. The auditory nerve fibers' (ANFs) characteristics such as refractory recovery, facilitation and spatial spread were obtained from ECAP data recorded in 11 CI recipients. These characteristics, together with a non-individualized model-derived adaptation effect, were integrated into the BIC strategy for a better selection of channels.

Two variations of the BIC strategy were compared to the conventional advanced combination encoder (ACE) coding strategy: the BIC-I strategy based on the individual CI recipients' ECAP parameters, and the BIC-G strategy based on the median values of ECAP parameters from all CI recipients who participated in the study. The melodic contour identification (MCI) and Oldenburg sentence recognition in noise (OLSA) tests were used to assess and compare the three coding strategies.

A significantly better performance in the transformed MCI test results with the rationalized arcsine transformation, was observed for both BIC strategy variations compared to the ACE strategy. There was no significant difference between the two variations of the BIC strategy and the ACE strategy in the OLSA test. No correlation was found between recovery time constants, absolute refractory periods, left and right width of SOE functions from three test electrodes and CI recipients’ performances in the two experiments.

However, significant correlations were found between facilitation time constant and amplitude and the results of the MCI and OLSA tests for the two variations of the BIC strategy.

Authors

Toner, F. M., Sanli, H., Hall, A. C., & Birman, C. S.

Journal

Otology & Neurotology, vol/issue: 41(6), pages: e695–e699

Link

https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000002650

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the effect on impedance levels of intraoperative reinsertion of a cochlear implant (CI) array compared with matched controls.

Study Design: Retrospective patient review.

Setting: Cochlear implant centre.

Patients: CI recipients in the Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre (SCIC) database who required intraoperative array reinsertion and matched controls. Exclusion criteria; known preceding meningitis or labyrinthitis ossificans; electrode array buckling; incomplete “final” insertion.

Intervention: Cochlear implantation.

Main outcome measures: Impedance values measured intraoperatively, at switch on, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively were analysed. The Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) Model was used to compare cases with controls for each device, at each time point, and for each channel.

Results: Thirty-one reinsertion cases identified; six CI 422 arrays; 14 CI 24RE (ST) arrays, and 11 CI 512 arrays. No increase in impedance levels was found in the reinsertion cases when compared with their matched controls. The only statistical difference in impedance was seen in the CI 422 cohort at switch on with the reinsertion cases having lower impedances (p = 0.03).

Conclusion: This is the first study to examine impedance values in patients who underwent intraoperative CI array reinsertion and to compare them with the impedances of matched controls. No significant increase found in impedances between our reinsertion cases and matched controls, suggesting the reinsertion did not result in any additional trauma or inflammation. This has implications for surgery both in routine cases such as a faulty electrode and also for future design of mechanisms for delivery of intracochlear therapies.

Authors

Walton, J., & Peadon, F. E.

Journal

Medicine Today, vol/issue: 21(8), pages: 12–17

Abstract

In Australia, three in every 1000 children are born with some degree of hearing loss. Early diagnosis is the key to early intervention and improved outcomes from hearing rehabilitation.

Key points

Early diagnosis of hearing loss and intervention with appropriate hearing devices improves children’s language development as well as social, emotional and educational outcomes.

All states and territories in Australia have universal newborn hearing screening (NBHS).

Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for hearing loss in children not meeting speech milestones or having behavioural problems and learning difficulties at school, and refer for audiological and/or ENT assessment.

Children can have progressive hearing loss, so passing the NBHS does not mean a child will have normal hearing subsequently.

GPs should discuss hygiene measures that can prevent the transmission of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection with female patients who are pregnant and at higher risk.

If an infant has a ‘refer’ result on NBHS, encourage screening for CMV via saliva polymerase chain reaction test within the first 3 weeks of life.

CT scan is not an appropriate radiological investigation for newborn hearing loss; MRI of the brain and inner ear is preferred.

Authors

Wong, C. L., Ching, T. Y., Cupples, L., Leigh, G., Marnane, V., Button, L., Martin, L., Whitfield, J., & Gunnourie, M.

Journal

Deafness & Education International, vol/issue: 22(1), pages: 3–26

Link

https://doi.org/10.1080/14643154.2018.1475956

Abstract

Children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) are at higher risk of developing mental health problems. This study reports on the parent and teacher ratings of emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD) in 5-year old DHH children. It explores the similarities and differences between informants, and the risk and protective factors associated with parent and teacher-ratings of EBD.

Parents and teachers of 224 DHH children completed questionnaires on children's EBD and functional auditory behaviour. Children completed standardized assessments of non-verbal cognitive and language abilities. On average, parent- and teacher-rated EBD were 0.42 and 0.20 standard deviations higher than typically developing children.

Parents reported more behavioural problems (hyperactivity and conduct), whereas teachers reported poorer prosocial behaviour. Inter-rater correlations were generally low to moderate (0.29 to 0.50). Overall, children with additional disabilities, lower non-verbal cognitive ability, and poor functional auditory behaviour were at higher risk of EBD. Language ability was only a significant predictor of teacher-rated EBD for children with hearing aids but not cochlear implants. Differences in informant-ratings emphasize the need for a multi-informant approach to get a global perspective on the psychopathology of DHH children.

The findings indicate that parents may need assistance with managing behavioural problems at home, and teachers should facilitate more opportunities to practice prosocial behaviour at school. Intervention efforts should focus on facilitating good functional listening skills, as this may in turn, improve the mental health of young DHH children.

Authors

Byatt, Timothy J.

Journal

Hearing Journal, vol/issue: 72(11), pages: 30,32-30,32

Link

https://doi.org/10.1097/01.HJ.0000612584.73866.40

Abstract

Adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) in countries such as Australia and the United States now have access to improved assistive hearing technology, widespread implementation of early hearing screening programs, and early intervention. These advances have led to better speech and language in comparison to earlier generations.

While these improved outcomes are to be celebrated, the gains are not always apparent in other domains such as social communication and psychosocial development. Prioritizing the development of social capital in this population presents opportunities to improve a wide range of outcomes. This review is an adaptation of a published systematic review that explored contemporary social capital literature relating to adults and adolescents who are DHH and adolescents with other types of disability.

The studies discussed in this article indicate that high reserves of social capital can lead to improved outcomes in areas such as inclusion, diversity, identity formation, and quality of life for adolescents who are DHH.

Authors

Byatt, T. J., Dally, K., & Duncan, J.

Journal

Journal of Deaf Studies & Deaf Education, vol/issue: 24(4), pages: 319–332

Link

https://doi.org/10.1093/deafed/enz020

Abstract

Outcomes have improved for adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) in recent years in areas such as language and speech; however, outcomes such as pragmatic and psychosocial development are still not equal to adolescents with typical hearing. This systematic review of literature explored recent research as it pertains to social capital and adolescents who are DHH.

The inclusion criteria were extended to include other populations who are DHH and adolescents with other disabilities to identify future research directions. Themes identified in the reviewed literature viewed through social capital theory included psychosocial outcomes; the importance of language; the benefit of online social networking sites; the role of the family; the role of the school; inclusion and identity; role models; and post-school transition.

Results demonstrated that social capital is an area with much promise as it relates to buffering outcomes for adolescents who are DHH. More empirical evidence is required in the form of quantitative research using validated social capital instruments and qualitative research that gives a voice to adolescents who are DHH. The role of social capital in facilitating inclusion, identity, and friendships, were identified as possible future research directions.

Authors

Da Cruz, M.

Journal

Medicine Today, vol/issue: 20(8), pages: 28–38

Abstract

Ménière’s disease is an uncommon cause of recurrent vertigo that should be distinguished from other common causes of balance disturbance, such as vestibular migraine and positional vertigo. Stepwise introduction of dietary restriction of sodium, lifestyle changes and medication can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks in most patients. Hearing loss can be treated initially with hearing aids and, in the later stages, a cochlear implant.

Key points

Ménière’s disease is characterised by recurrent attacks of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus and a sensation of aural fullness.

Attacks are sudden in onset, typically accompanied by an intense sensation of movement, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and sweating, and can last hours.

Treatment options for acute attacks include ondansetron, prochlorperazine and diazepam.

In most patients, attack frequency and severity can be reduced by a stepwise approach of dietary restriction of sodium, lifestyle changes and medication; surgical treatment is rarely required.

Referral to a specialist is best for initial diagnosis and evaluation.

GPs have an important role in ongoing management of patients with Ménière’s disease.

Authors

Duncan, J., Lim, S. R., Baker, F., Flynn, T., & Byatt, T

Journal

Volta Review, vol/issue: 119(2), pages: 57–82

Link

https://doi.org/10.17955/tvr.119.2.804

Abstract

Adolescence can be socially challenging. Online and offline social capital are indicators of investments in relationships that may ease this period of growth and influence future social and economic participation. (In this context, offline is a synonym for in-person or face-to-face).

This research had three aims:

1. to systematically review literature related to the social capital of adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing;
2. to measure online and offline social capital of adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing; and
3. to determine if attending a disability-specific residential camp for adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing influenced online or offline social capital.

Twenty-nine adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing completed an online quantitative survey one week before attending a four-day residential disability-specific camp and 17 of these adolescents completed the same survey approximately three months after the camp.

Results indicated that adolescents reported:

1. similar online bridging social capital pre- and post-camp attendance with minimal reported change;
2. a decrease in online bonding social capital post-camp attendance;
3. mixed offline bridging social capital pre and post-camp attendance; and
4. an overall increase in offline bonding social capital post-camp attendance. Given the potential buffering effect of social capital, results highlight the need for additional research within this domain.

Authors

Hall, A. C., Kenway, B., Sanli, H., & Birman, C. S.

Journal

Otology & Neurotology, vol/issue: 40(8), pages: E769–E773

Link

https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000002314

Abstract

Objective: Examine postoperative speech perception outcomes in a large vestibular aqueduct syndrome (LVAS) patients at a major cochlear implantation centre.

Study design: Retrospective analysis of the Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre (SCIC) database and medical records from January 1994 to December 2015 was performed.

Setting: Tertiary referral centre.

Patients: Patients with a diagnosis of LVAS who received a cochlear implant (CI). Only those with speech perception outcomes recorded at least 12 months post implant were included in our analysis.

Intervention(s): Therapeutic.

Main outcome measure(s): Postoperative speech perception scores.

Results: Between 1994 and 2015, 176 adult and pediatric patients with a diagnosis of LVAS underwent cochlear implantation at SCIC. Postoperative Bamford-Kowal Bench (BKB) sentence test scores were obtained for 97 patients. The postoperative median BKB score was 93% with a lower quartile score of 85% and an upper quartile score of 98%. Smaller numbers were available for post-CI City University of New York (CUNY) and Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant (CNC) word scores yet similar excellent results were seen.

Conclusions: Our study results suggest the CI should be considered when BKB scores have dropped to 85%. We suggest that rather than LVAS cases representing a challenge to cochlear implantation, they are amongst the best candidates for surgery, and should receive a CI at an earlier stage in hearing loss, when they have better speech perception. This allows stable hearing to be established earlier along with excellent speech perception outcomes.