Abstract:
This systematic review aims to look into the impact of early cochlear
implantation on quality of life. This review compares the effect of cochlear
implantation on quality of life (QoL) for children based on their age of implantation.
The study used a literature search of electronic databases (e.g., Pub Med, Google
Scholar, J stage, Research Gate, Science direct) and the AIISH repository from 2015
to October 2020. The retrieved articles were assessed in two stages: title and abstract
screening, followed by a full-length article review. Eight articles were selected after
the full length article review out of 340 shortlisted articles. Among the selected
studies, four used the cohort design, two used the cross-sectional design, and two used
the case-control design. Parents and self-reported questionnaires were used to
evaluate the quality of life. Early detection and rehabilitation improved auditory
ability and quality of life in younger children. If the child's auditory stimulation and
surroundings provided adequate auditory information, implant at a later age also (>
24-36 months) produced similar outcomes. To completely understand the context and
various levels of effect of CI on QoL, investigations on QoL in children should
involve longer follow-up periods. The impact of parent and child status on quality of
life is an issue that merits additional investigation. It is likely to differ significantly
depending on the quality of life instruments used, respondents, and methods of
follow-up provided.
