HOPE Workshop: Advanced Topics on Cochlear Implantation in Children - Los Angeles, CA

This workshop will explore several topics

concerning the optimization of a child's

outcomes with cochlear implantation via bimodal fittings,

programming of the sound processor, and habilitation. This

program is intended for professionals working with children with

hearing loss from a range of backgrounds including education,

speech language pathology, early intervention, and audiology.

The program will have three strands:

Bimodal Devices for Children. Bimodal device fittings—cochlear

implant (CI)and hearing aid at the opposite ear—are becoming more

prevalent as children with a greater degree of residual hearing are

considered for cochlear implants. The present rationale for fitting

bimodal devices is that using two devices may enhance listening

in a variety of "real world" environments. However, careful and

coordinated fitting of the hearing aid and cochlear implant are

essential for successful outcomes. This presentation will discuss

current issues related to prescribing, fitting and evaluating sensory

devices in young children with hearing loss. Group data and clinical

case studies will be used to illustrate the impact of advances in

hearing aid and CI technology on cochlear implant candidacy,

bimodal and bilateral CI fittings, and evaluations of efficacy.

Programming a Child’s Cochlear Implant Processor.

When working with children who use cochlear implants,

professionals are required to monitor a number of

aspects of the child to increase the likelihood of success

with the device. Among the many issues that must be

monitored are consistent use of functional equipment, understanding

of typical speech and language milestones and an understanding of the

programming process. This presentation will review the typical techniques

used to obtain an appropriate MAP for a young child as well as the

methods used to verify the benefits delivered by that MAP. Discussions

will include explanations of the typical settings used and the effect

changes to these settings may have on a child’s ability to hear with their

cochlear implant. In addition, the collaborative nature of a mapping

session will be reviewed and suggestions for information that parents,

educational audiologists, educators and speech-language pathologists can

give the programming audiologist will also be provided. Case studies will

provide additional examples of scenarios to elicit discussion surrounding

appropriate referrals for follow up.

 (Re)Habilitation Resources for Educators. This segment will

provide a hands-on introduction to HOPE and other (re)habilitation

resources and listening tools to support the work of educational

and therapeutic professionals who work with children with cochlear

implants. Materials appropriate for parents will also be reviewed.

Each participant will receive HOPE materials to take home.

This intermediate level seminar is intended for those who already

have a basic level of understanding of cochlear implantation

in children. It is designed for education and early intervention

professionals, speech pathologists, and audiologists.

The seminar fee is $60 for professionals and $35 for full-time students, which includes morning coffee, lunch and all conference materials.