[Speech processor upgrade increases speech comprehension in patients with cochlear implants]. / Durch Upgrade von Sprachprozessoren erhöhtes Sprachverständnis bei Patienten mit Cochleaimplantat.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Hearing rehabilitation of patients with severe hearing loss by cochlear implant (CI) enhances their opportunities for communication immensely with regard to their normal-hearing social environment. The degree of participation depends decisively on speech discrimination. This study examines whether speech discrimination can be improved by equipping patients with next-generation speech processors (SP). METHODS: The changes in speech discrimination of 420 CI patients upon receiving a newer SP from 2003-2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Audiometry comprised the Freiburg number and monosyllable tests and the Oldenburg sentence test in quiet and noise, with a presentation volume of 70 dB. RESULTS: In all audiometric tests, the newer SP showed a significant improvement compared to the preceding SP. This improvement was attainable for the majority of patients and was independent of age. CONCLUSION: Upgrade of the SP results in improved speech discrimination. This holds true for several test settings. We therefore recommend earlier upgrades and that the costs for new SP be met.