Abstract
In India, 7-8% of the population is affected by post lingual deafness, which can lead to job dissatisfaction, depression, social withdrawal, and educational challenges. Despite the benefits, cochlear implantation in Northern India remains underutilized. This study examines the impact of cochlear implants on post lingual deafness, along with their etiology and indications. The study reviewed audiometric, clinical, and perioperative data of 50 adult patients (> 18 years) with bilateral post lingual severe to profound hearing loss, unresponsive to hearing aids, who underwent cochlear implantation between 2012 and 2024. Preoperative and postoperative demographic and audiometric data, operative details, postoperative therapy, and outcomes were assessed using hearing-specific quality of life measures (SSQ-12 and CIQOL-10 Global) and a subjective Likert scale of satisfaction. Outcomes were statistically compared. The cohort included 50 patients (31 male, 19 female), with a mean deafness onset age of 33.8 years and a mean duration of 4.48 years. About 48% had been deaf for less than four years. The VERIA technique was used in 86% of implantations, with no immediate postoperative complications. Later, 2% experienced moderate dizziness/vertigo and tinnitus. The mean SSQ-12 score was 63.96, and the mean CIQOL score was 53.29. Overall, 84% were satisfied with their post-implantation communication abilities. The VERIA technique is reliable for cochlear implantation in post lingually deaf adults. Cochlear implantation significantly improves the quality of life for these patients, enhancing their physical, mental, and social well-being. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-024-05110-y.