[Auditory and communication learning in patients with cochlear implants].

Abstract

Nowadays the cochlear implant (CI) offers a new method of hearing, especially for deaf patients who do not benefit from conventional hearing aids. However, it may be difficult to get used to this kind of hearing advice. CI users have special problems in interpreting strange acoustic sensations and relating them to auditory features of language and noise they knew before the onset of deafness. An interdisciplinary approach is very important for rehabilitation. Beside otological examination and the surgical implantation, audiological assessment is needed for the correct adjustment of the speech processor and for measurement of performance. Also auditory management and counselling of deaf patients is an important part of CI rehabilitation. A learning programme in hearing and communicating ("hearing training") is offered to CI users that takes account of different linguistic levels. Auditory learning by the use of CI is based on different abilities of the deaf patient, of which the most important are speech skills and learning capacity. Although success rates vary, it certainly improves speech intelligibility during lip reading, communication behaviour, and recognition of environmental noise. The latter ability improves orientation in the acoustic surroundings. CI rehabilitation may improve the psychosocial attitude of the deaf.