Improving speech perception in noise

A primary goal of MCICE is to work towards a better understanding of the genetic basis of hearing loss, as well as  to examine whether different types of hearing loss lead to differential success with a cochlear implant.  To do that, we plan to identify the genetic causes of hearing loss in patients w

Cochlear implants have become the standard of care for those with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, but users’ success with the device is quite variable.

The use of cochlear implants can result in remarkable improvement in the ability to understand speech.

The electric signal delivered by a cochlear implant is impoverished, relative to the normal acoustic signal.

Cochlear-implants are remarkable devices that have changed people's lives. But while some CI users comprehend this signal exceedingly well, others have more difficulty.  Understanding why CI users have such variable success with their devices is critical for developing more effective intervention.

Most individuals with a cochlear implant receive very similar CI programming, a “one-size-fits-all” approach.  We are exploring whether a more individualized approach could lead to better outcomes.