Cochlear Implants in Children

In recent years, the House single-electrode cochlear implant has proven to be a clinically feasible prosthesis for profoundly deaf adults. Based on these findings, the decision was made to begin implanting those children who could not benefit from hearing aids. As of August 1982, 23 profoundly deaf children (ranging in age from 3.4 to 17.5 yrs) have received the cochlear implant. The majority were deafened by meningitis. Results to date indicate that children demonstrate sound field thresholds and receive timing/intensity information comparable to that of adult implant patients. Results have been extremely encouraging, but only long-term experience will determine the ultimate benefit of the implant in children.