Sequential bilateral cochlear implantation in children: selection criteria for second ear surgery

Objectives to develop a safe and effective way of qualifying children for a second device cochlear implantation. Material and methods. There were 50 children from two to twelve years old after unilateral cochlear implantation under our observation. During qualification, the following criteria were taken into account: audiometry results, use of the hearing aid in the non-implanted ear and benefit of the device, speech and hearing development after the first cochlear implantation. Results. According to our findings the second cochlear implantation was recommended for 12 (24%) patients; in 16 (32%) cases the second cochlear implantation was refused; in 22 (44%) cases it was recommended to postpone implantation of the second device. Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that the safe and effective way of qualifying for a second cochlear implant can restore binaural hearing that is crucial for the child's speech and hearing development and enhance integration into a world of peers.