Speech processor data logging helps in predicting early linguistic outcomes in implanted children

Publication date: October 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 101
Author(s): Letizia Guerzoni, Domenico Cuda
ObjectiveTo analyse the value of listening-data logged in the speech processor on the prediction of the early auditory and linguistic skills in children who received a cochlear implant in their first 2 years of life.Study designProspective observational non-randomized study.MethodsTen children with profound congenital sensorineural hearing loss were included in the study. The mean age at CI activation was 16.9 months (SD ± 7.2; range 10–24). The auditory skills were evaluated with the Infant Toddler Meaningful Inventory Scale and the Category of Auditory Performance. Lexical level was assessed with the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory.The overall data of average daily use and acoustic scene-analyses were extracted from Data Logging system.The effect of the one-year cumulative listening time to speech (in quiet) and speech-in-noise on the auditory and lexical scores was analysed.ResultsA significant positive correlation was found between speech in quiet exposure time at low loudness level (<70 dB) and lexical quotient after one year of CI use. Infant Toddler Meaningful Inventory Scale was negatively correlated with the highest speech-in-noise loudness levels (>80 dB). The Category of Auditory Performance was not related to the logged data.ConclusionThe listening environment can influence the early functional outcomes in younger implanted children. In this perspective, the data logging system is a promising tool in predicting early linguistic and auditory outcomes.



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