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Children with single-sided deafness (SSD) may experience delays in language and speech development. Reduced speech discrimination and poor sound localization abilities in young SSD patients may result in greater cognitive efforts required to focus and process auditory information, as well as increased listening-related fatigue. Consequently, these children can have a higher risk of academic failure and are often in need of extra help at school. Recently, cochlear implants (CIs) have been introduced as a rehabilitative option for these children, but their effectiveness is still a topic of debate. A literature review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines, searching the Medline database from inception to October 2023. The research identified nine papers that met the inclusion criteria. Data extracted from the selected studies included 311 children affected by SSD and cochlear implants. The reported audiological outcomes were further analyzed. Overall, a high level of satisfaction was described by parents of children with SSD and CI, and those who received a CI under the age of 3 presented better results. However, a proportion of patients did not use the device daily. Our review highlights the possible, and still controversial, role of CI for the hearing rehabilitation of children with unilateral deafness, underlining the need for further research in this field. To date, careful and comprehensive counseling with the child and the family is necessary before considering this option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Assess the outcomes in patients who underwent cochlear implant (CI) for single-sided deafness (SSD). Methods: All patients affected by SSD who underwent CI at Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, from October 2012 to May 2022 with at least 6 months of follow-up were selected in the study group. The analysis included subjective and objective measures performed pre-operative and up to 24 months after surgery. Hearing threshold on both sides was evaluated with a weighted four-frequency average (PTA [0.5 kHz + 1 kHz + 2 kHz + 4 kHz]/4) on pure tone audiometry and speech audiometry (Speech Discrimination Score, SDS). The Speech Spatial and Qualities of Hearing scale (SSQ Questionnaire) for binaural hearing benefits and sound localization, the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Questionnaire (THI) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory Questionnaire (DHI) were used for subjective assessment. Results: Data from 138 patients, 69 males and 69 females, (mean age 49 years, range 17–77 years) underwent CI for SSD were examined. Single-sided hearing deprivation average before undergoing CI surgery was 2.5 years (range 3 months–35 years). There was a significant reduction of THI and DHI scores compared to pre-operative scores alongside a referred improvement in social, physical, and emotional well-being through the SSQ questionnaire. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this paper descried the largest cohort of SSD who underwent CI in a single institution. According to our findings CI in patients affected by SSD represents a valuable tool for an overall improvement of tinnitus and dizziness but also quality of life, after at least 6 months of follow-up. Further studies are desirable to improve rehabilitation pathways and possibly set new standards of care of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]