Cochlear implantation for single-sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss

Single-Sided Deafness and Asymmetric Hearing Loss Post-Approval Study

Not applicable Interventional Med-El Corporation · NCT04506853

This study is testing if cochlear implants can help adults and children with single-sided deafness and uneven hearing improve their hearing and quality of life over three years.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment65 (estimated)
Ages5 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMed-El Corporation Industry-sponsored
Locations6 sites (Chicago, Illinois and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04506853 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the long-term safety and effectiveness of cochlear implantation in adults and children suffering from single-sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss. Conducted as a multi-center study across six sites in the United States and Canada, it aims to enroll 65 subjects who will be followed for a minimum of three years post-implantation. The study utilizes the MED-EL Cochlear Implant System to assess improvements in hearing outcomes and overall quality of life for participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged five years or older with unilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss and normal or mild to moderate hearing in the non-implanted ear.

Not a fit: Patients with bilateral profound hearing loss or those who do not meet the specific audiological criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve hearing capabilities and quality of life for patients with single-sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with cochlear implantation in similar populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Five years of age or older at the time of implantation
* Unilateral profound hearing loss, as defined by a pure-tone average (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz) of 90 dB or greater in the ear to be implanted
* Sensorineural hearing loss in the ear to be implanted, as defined by an air-bone gap less than or equal to 10 dB at two or more frequencies out of 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz and a diagnosed pathology of the outer or middle ear
* Normal hearing or mild to moderate hearing loss in the non-implanted ear, as defined by a pure-tone average (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz) of 55 dB or less
* Word recognition in the ear to be implanted of 5% or less on CNC word score in quiet
* Previous experience with an appropriately-fit Contralateral Routing of Signal (CROS) hearing aid, BI-Contralateral Routing of Signal (CROS) hearing aid, bone conduction, or traditional hearing aid, as deemed appropriate by investigator
* Fluent in English

Exclusion Criteria:

* Duration of profound hearing loss of 10 years or more
* Absence of cochlear development or non-functionality of cochlear nerve
* Other retrocochlear hearing loss
* Evidence of severe cochlear malformation (i.e., common cavity or ossification)
* External or middle ear infection
* Suspected developmental or cognitive concern
* Other medical contraindication for surgery or anesthesia

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois and 5 other locations

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hearing Loss, UnilateralHearing Loss, Sensorineural
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.