How cochlear implants affect the ability to recognize environmental sounds in adults
Environmental Sound Recognition Before and After Cochlear Implantation in Adults
This study is looking at how cochlear implants can help adults with hearing loss recognize everyday sounds better, which is important for their safety and enjoyment of life, and it aims to find out how these improvements can help them feel better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10684001 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cochlear implants (CIs) influence the ability of adults with sensorineural hearing loss to recognize environmental sounds, which is essential for their safety and quality of life. The study will assess changes in environmental sound recognition (ESR) before and after cochlear implantation using a novel approach that mimics real-world listening situations. By collecting data over time, the researchers aim to understand the factors that affect ESR and how it relates to the overall quality of life for CI users. This information will help hearing health professionals provide better rehabilitation and counseling for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with sensorineural hearing loss who are considering or have recently received cochlear implants.
Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss that is not sensorineural or those who do not qualify for cochlear implantation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of cochlear implants and improve the everyday listening experiences of patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have indicated that there is variability in environmental sound recognition among cochlear implant users, suggesting that this research could build on existing findings.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris, Michael Stephen — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Harris, Michael Stephen
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 below.