Factors Influencing the Decision on Cochlear Implants in Adults in India

Abstract

Aim and objectives: The purpose of the current study was to find the prevalence of probable adult cochlear implant candidates reported at AIISH and to analyse the factors such as lifestyle, surgery, knowledge of cochlear implant, employment, family and travel, which may affect the decision on cochlear implantation in adults. Method: A detailed review of 1000 adult case files reported between December 2022 and February 2023 was conducted, probable cochlear implant candidates were selected based on the pure tone average, speech identification scores, middle ear status, degree and type of hearing loss, hearing aid trial and MRI/CT scan if available. Six audiologists were involved in the development and content validation of the questionnaire to identify the factors affecting cochlear implantation in adults. It was administered on 16 adult cochlear implant candidates. The questionnaire consisted of six sections, and the responses were collected on a five-point Likert scale. Results: The prevalence of probable cochlear implant candidates in adults reported to AIISH was reported to be 5%. Fifty-two ears were eligible for traditional bilateral cochlear implants, twenty-three ears were suitable for unilateral cochlear implants, and two ears were eligible for electro-acoustic stimulation. The primary reason for not going for a cochlear implant was the cost of the device. Other factors such as lack of family support, lack of knowledge of cochlear implant centres and risk of surgery affected the decision on cochlear implant. Factors such as lifestyle/social barriers, employment, and travel may or may not affect one’s decision on a cochlear implant. Conclusion: The study shows that there are probable adult candidates for cochlear implants who report for audiological evaluation, however, factors such as the cost of the device, lack of family support, lack of knowledge of centres for cochlear implantation, risk of surgery may affect the decision on cochlear implantation. There is a need for the implementation of schemes that may help adults who are not benefiting from a hearing aid, this can help to assist them financially and remove a major barrier for cochlear implants in adults.