The American Cochlear Implant Alliance (ACIA) 2023 Conference served as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the field of implantable hearing devices. Held in Dallas, Texas, the meeting brought together leading surgeons, audiologists, researchers, and allied healthcare professionals to discuss advancements, share knowledge, address critical issues, and present groundbreaking research in the realm of hearing restoration.
Dr. Abraham Jacob, renowned neurotologist and high-volume cochlear implant surgeon, captivated the audience with his presentation on “Practical Efforts in Expanding Access to Cochlear Implantation.” His presentation focused on real-world strategies aimed at reducing referral barriers, promoting awareness, and fostering collaborations among stakeholders. Dr. Jacob’s insights engendered meaningful discussion regarding equitable access to cochlear implants for all who could benefit from them.
All three esteemed audiologists from the Ear & Hearing team at Center for Neurosciences presented at the podium during ACIA. Dr. Mary Rose Goldstein delivered an intriguing presentation about “Using Aided Word Recognition Testing Post Hearing Aid Fitting to Identify Hidden Cochlear Implant Candidates.” She discussed the current lack of speech testing after hearing aid fittings by audiologists, even though approximately 20% of all hearing aid users underperform with their hearing aids and approximately 1/3 of those with word recognition scores between 41-80% do poorly. Dr. Goldstein’s research spoke to performing aided speech intelligibility tests as a minimum standard when fitting hearing aids. This objective metric provides an evidenced-based approach to identify poorly performing hearing aid users who may actually be candidates for alternate treatment strategies such as cochlear implants. Dr. Alissa Knickerbocker shared her work on a “New Cochlear Implant Candidacy Protocol for Patients with Asymmetric Sensorineural Hearing Loss.” Her research ensures that individuals with asymmetric hearing loss are tested in their most difficult-to-hear conditions and receive appropriate consideration for cochlear implants, thereby resulting in improved outcomes and quality of life. Dr. Stephanie Bourn presented her work on “Cochlear Implant Outcomes in the Very, Very Elderly,” demonstrating that older individuals can achieve significant benefits from the procedure, leading to improved communication and overall well-being. This research dispelled the notion that age alone should limit candidacy.
The presentations by Dr. Abraham Jacob, Dr. Mary Rose Goldstein, Dr. Alissa Knickerbocker, and Dr. Stephanie Bourn at ACIA 2023 showcased their collective efforts to advance the field of cochlear implantation. Their research and insights emphasized the importance of expanding access, considering additional evaluation methods, addressing specific patient populations, and challenging preconceived notions about candidacy. The ACIA 2023 conference, a hub of knowledge and collaboration, reinforced a core belief that Ear & Hearing | Center for Neurosciences provides unparalleled implantable hearing restoration services for the Southern Arizona community.
E&H Team Invited to Present at American Cochlear Implant Alliance
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