Cochlear implant for single-sided deafness improves tinnitus and vertigo

A new study by Morelli and peers found that after at least six months of follow-up, cochlear implant (CI) in patients with single-sided deafness (SSD) is a useful tool for an overall improvement in tinnitus and vertigo as well as quality of life. The findings of this study were published in European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology.

The main objective of this study was to analyze the results of patients who have single-sided deafness cochlear implants. The research group was composed of all SSD patients who received CI at Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, between October 2012 and May 2022 with at least 6 months of follow-up. Pre-operatively and up to 24 months following surgery, subjective and objective measurements were included in the study. Pure tone audiometry and speech audiometry were used to evaluate the hearing threshold on both sides using a weighted four-frequency average (PTA [0.5 kHz + 1 kHz + 2 kHz + 4 kHz]/4) (Speech Discrimination Score, SDS). For subjective evaluation, the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Questionnaire (THI), Dizziness Handicap Inventory Questionnaire (DHI), and Speech Spatial and Qualities of Hearing scale (SSQ Questionnaire) were utilized.

The key findings of this study were:

1. Data from 138 individuals who underwent CI for SSD were reviewed.

2. There were 69 men and 69 women (mean age, range, 17–77 years).

3. Prior to having CI surgery, single-sided hearing loss lasted an average of 2.5 years (between 3 months and 35 years).

4. The THI and DHI scores were significantly lower than pre-operative levels, and the SSQ questionnaire also indicated an improvement in social, physical, and emotional well-being.

In a single institution, this paper described the largest cohort of SSD patients who underwent CI. After at least six months of follow-up, the results show that CI in patients with SSD is a useful tool for a general improvement in tinnitus and vertigo as well as quality of life. It would be ideal to do further research to enhance rehabilitation programs and even establish new guidelines for treating this ailment.

Reference:

Morelli, L., Fancello, V., Gaino, F., Cagliero, G., Caruso, A., & Sanna, M. (2023). Cochlear implantation in single-sided deafness: a single-center experience of 138 cases. In European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology. Springer Science and Business Media LLC. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-023-07959-1