Cochlear implants for children with uneven hearing loss
Official title: Cochlear Implantation in Children with Asymmetric Hearing Loss or Single Sided Deafness Clinical Trial
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10900721 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cochlear implants can help children with uneven hearing or deafness in one ear, making it easier for them to hear and understand speech in busy places like schools and playgrounds.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $697,880 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DC018942-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900721 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with asymmetric hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal hearing or those who do not meet the specific criteria for asymmetric hearing loss or single-sided deafness may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of cochlear implants in children who experience asymmetric hearing loss or single-sided deafness. The study aims to determine how these implants can improve binaural hearing, which is crucial for understanding speech in noisy environments like classrooms and playgrounds. By conducting a multi-center clinical trial, the research will evaluate the candidacy criteria, assessment tools, and long-term outcomes for children receiving cochlear implants. The goal is to provide better hearing solutions for children who currently have limited options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the auditory experiences and communication abilities of children with asymmetric hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using cochlear implants for children with similar hearing challenges, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Firszt, Jill B — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Firszt, Jill B
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Noise-related hearing loss and its link to Alzheimer's progression
Researchers are looking at whether hearing damage from loud noise speeds memory loss and dementia in people at risk for Alzheimer's.
-
Audiological rehabilitation for children with unilateral hearing loss
A research project aims to help children who hear with one ear by testing ways to improve their hearing and communication through targeted audiology interventions.
-
Choosing the right hearing device for kids with moderate-to-severe hearing loss
This grant explores which hearing device—hearing aids or cochlear implants—works best for children aged 0-11 with moderate-to-severe hearing loss.
-
Noise-related hearing loss and brain-to-ear feedback in hearing protection
A small, patient-friendly study will look at how loud noise changes the brain’s control over hearing and whether this affects conditions like tinnitus or sensitivity to sound.
-
How loud noise can change the brain's sound decisions
This project looks at how loud noise-related hearing loss may affect how people process sounds and make quick decisions about what they hear.
-
Understanding how tactile language and wearable tech can help DeafBlind children learn and use language
A study at Gallaudet University tests a new tactile language and wearable haptic devices to help DeafBlind children build early language and everyday life skills.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.