Investigation of feasibility of early fitting after cochlear implantation and comparison with classical fitting method

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility of early activation of the sound processor (1 day postoperatively) after cochlear implant surgery and to compare the electrophysiological parameters with those of the classical method (activation 1 month postoperatively).

Method

This prospective study included 69 patients who underwent cochlear implant surgery between March 2019 and August 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: early fitting and classic fitting (control group). In the early fitting group, the sound processor was activated 1 day after surgery, whereas in the classic fitting group, it was activated 4 weeks after surgery. The study investigated whether early fitting had a negative effect on wound healing and compared electrophysiological parameters between the two groups.

Results

In both groups, the most common early side effects were pain, redness, and swelling. In both groups, 2 patients (5.7 %) required flap revision. The electrode impedance (EI) and most comfortable loudness level (MCL) values were lower in the early fitting group than in the classic fitting group at the initial measurements. However, no significant difference was observed in measurements after 1 month.

Conclusion

Early fitting of the sound processor after surgery did not adversely affect wound healing and is considered a viable approach. Although the electrode impedance and MCL values were lower in the early fitting group in the short term, similar results were obtained in the long term. Early fitting may reduce the procedure cost, particularly for patients who travel long distances to reach the treatment center.