Objectives
The study aims to include everyone who received cochlear implants (CI) in Norway before 2012, and who were 18 years of age or younger. By including all who received CI as children, we wish to ensure a more Complete picture of the highly differentiated utilization of CI, and thus the differentiated needs and experiences with using CI. Data will be collected through different language and cognitive tests, as well as questionnaires to assess quality of life. The goal of the study is to increase knowledge about how people who received CI as children experience their quality of life, their hearing, and to what extent they are able to use their hearing when communicating with others. The study also includes an opportunity for genetic testing, to examine possible genetic causes of the hearing loss.
Background
In the period from 1988 and up until 2012, about 530 children and adolescents received one or two CI at Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet. The children who receive CI today are often younger and have different needs and experiences than the ones who are now adults. A cross-sectional study will give a picture of this large and differentiated group.
Financing
Norwegian Directory of health, Oslo University Hospital and the University of Oslo.