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ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Title: 'Simultaneous Bilateral Cochlear Implantation in the Pediatric Population: Case Studies and Review of the Literature' Track: 2 - Audiological Services Keyword(s): simultaneous, bilateral, pediatric, cochlear implants Learning Objectives: Describe the medical/surgical risks and benefits of SBCI. Identify the candidacy criteria that need to be in place before considering SBCI for a pediatric patient. Describe the outcomes of SBCI through the 9 case studies highlighted. Abstract: Early cochlear implantation in young children who are deaf has been shown to result in better development of age appropriate speech and language skills (Chadha et al., 2011; Niparko et al., 2010). Although patients are successful with the use of one implant, even the best performers have difficulty with localization and speech in noise (Basura et al., 2009; Litovsky et al., 2006). Bilateral cochlear implantation may help patients overcome these difficulties. An ideal timeline for bilateral cochlear implantation has not been validated, and most bilateral devices are placed sequentially, but it is important to note that research has shown there is a “sensitive period” for cochlear implantation in order to achieve favorable speech and language results (Sharma et al., 2005; Sharma et al., 2011). This project aims to explore the risks/benefits of simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation (SBCI) in the pediatric population through a systematic literature review and 9 case examinations. Sixteen articles were examined and divided into the following areas: candidacy, SBCI outcomes, surgical considerations, auditory evoked potentials, and cost effectiveness. No surgical complications related to SBCI occurred in the case studies. Cost-efficiency was achieved by consolidating the surgical procedure and by reducing the number of appointments needed. The general recommendations from the literature favor SBCI for young children whenever possible (Papsin et al., 2008). Audiologic considerations not discussed in the literature include: stimulation protocols, mapping considerations, and speech perception outcomes. In conclusion, a review of the literature and an examination of 9 CCCDP cases suggest that SBCI has several benefits and potential risks. The risks and benefits need to be outlined to the patient’s parents before a decision is made. More research on the language development outcomes of children with SBCI versus those with sequentially placed implants is needed in order to ascertain specific differences between the two groups. Presentation: This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online. Handouts: Handout is not Available
PRESENTER(S) / AUTHOR(S) INFORMATION
Bianca Gomez - POC,Primary Presenter,Author UNC-Chapel Hill      Credentials: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders      Other Affiliations: Au.D. Student, NC-LEND Trainee and MCH Fellow       Bianca is a 3rd year AuD student at UNC-Chapel Hill. She completed her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Florida. Her interests are in pediatric audiology, specifically auditory development and pediatric cochlear implants. Her LEND research project focuses on simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation in the pediatric population. She is also bi-lingual and has a special interest in the Spanish-speaking population.       ASHA DISCLOSURE: Financial - No relevant financial relationship exist. Nonfinancial - No relevant nonfinancial relationship exist. Holly Teagle - Author UNC-Chapel Hill      Credentials: AuD, CCC-A       Assistant Professor and Director for W. Paul Biggers Carolina Children's Communicative Disorders Program (CCCDP)       ASHA DISCLOSURE: Financial - No relevant financial relationship exist. Nonfinancial - No relevant nonfinancial relationship exist. Craig Buchman - Author UNC-Chapel Hill      Credentials: MD, FACS       Professor Vice Chairman for Clinical Affairs Chief, Division of Otology/Neurotology and Skull Base Surgery Director, UNC Ear and Hearing Center Director, UNC Skull Base Center Administrative Director for W. Paul Biggers Carolina Children's Communicative Disorders Program (CCCDP)       ASHA DISCLOSURE: Financial - No relevant financial relationship exist. Nonfinancial - Has a Professional (Unpaid consultant for Cochlear, Advanced Bionics and MedEL Corporations) relationship for Volunteer consulting.