Cochlear implantation in Iran

ABSTRACT

Sound is transformed into small electrical currents which stimulate the auditory nerves in the cochlea and generate the hearing sensation. Cochlear implantation [CI] has become an increasing common procedure in the rehabilitation of selected cases of profound bilateral deafness. CI is a method which provides useful hearing and improves communication ability of adults and children with severe or profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. One hundred sixty patients [134 prelingual, 26 postlingual deaf] underwent cochlear implantation after full investigations in the Iranian Cochlear Implantation Center from 1992 to 1998. The majority of patients were 4 to 7 years old. The youngest patient was a 15-month-old child. Spontaneous reaction to environmental sound achieved in 87.3%. 71% of cochlear implanted deaf patients became able to use telephone and communicate with familiar speakers. Complication rate was as low as 3.75% and the most common complication was CSF gusher