New Insights into Tinnitus in Cochlear Implant Recipients

Abstract

Whilst many people who undergo cochlear implantation experience an improvement in tinnitus, for some this is not the case. Recent papers regarding tinnitus and cochlear implantation are reviewed, and a consensus is identified that about 25% of adult cochlear implant patients continue to experience troublesome tinnitus. Some emergent evidence indicates that for children with cochlear implants the burden may not be as high, but corroboration is needed. Single sided deafness and tinnitus are a new indication for cochlear implantation, conferring tinnitus improvement, and a modest increase in hearing in some situations. Priorities for research are identified.

Keywords:

• COCHLEAR IMPLANT
• PLASTICITY
• TINNITUS