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Restoring hearing symmetry with two cochlear implants or one cochlear implant and a contralateral hearing aid

Jill B. Firszt, PhD, et al.

Figure. Scores (0 - 10 rating) for one individual on each of three subsections of the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale at four test intervals from preimplant (Pre) to 12 months postimplant.

Listening with both ears versus one ear alone offers numerous advantages. Binaural effects include being able to hear better when speech and noise occur in the same room, to hear soft speech, and to locate either the person talking or the sound in the environment. Research findings in recipients of two cochlear implants or recipients of a cochlear implant in one ear and a hearing aid in the other suggest improved binaural listening. Veterans with bilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss may be candidates for these sensory devices. If recommended by a hearing professional, patient evaluation and use of bilateral sensory devices are highly encouraged.



Volume 45 Number 5, 2008
   Pages 749 — 768

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