Cochlear implantation in children with complex needs - outcomes

AbstractObjectivesProspective review of the assessment and outcomes of children with complex needs receiving cochlear implants (CIs) at the Yorkshire Cochlear Implant Service (YCIS).MethodsNineteen children with complex needs were assessed pre-implant and 12 months post-implant switch-on using appropriate developmental-related audiology, categories of auditory performance (CAP), meaningful auditory information scale (MAIS), listening progress score (LiP), and meaningful use of speech scale (MUSS). Outcomes were compared with 230 children at the YCIS without complex needs.ResultsAverage CAP scores improved from 0.4 to 3.0, compared with 4.2 in the control group. MAIS scores as completed by parent and teacher improved to 62 and 57%, respectively, compared with the control group who achieved 82 and 70% at 12 months. LiP scores improved from 11 to 65% compared with the control which increased from 22 to 81%. MUSS scores as assessed by parent and teacher improved to 35 and 31%, respectively, at 12 months compa...