The Features of Speech Processing Programs (Maps) of Children With or Without Cochlear Malformation

The number of electrodes used, the range of frequencies alloted in the electrodes, and the threshold [T] levels of cochlear implant children (4 to 11 years old) with or without cochlear malformations were investigated. Five children with normal cochlear, 3 children with incomplete partitions and 2 children with common cavity deformity were examined. Results indicated that in the incomplete partition's group the T level obtained were higher and the ranges of frequencies alloted into the electrodes were smaller compared to those of the normal group. However, in the children of common cavity deformity, the number of electrodes inserted were much smaller, the T levels were much higher, and the ranges of frequencies alloted into the electrodes were much smaller than those of the incomplete partition and the normal groups. The children with common cavity deformity, therefore, seemed to need other visual stimuli in addition to auditory input through cochlear implants.