Vestibular function and balance stability in adult cochlear ımplant users: a comparative study of sensory organization, visual acuity, and gaze stabilization.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the vestibular functions and balance stability in adult cochlear implant (CI) users through a comprehensive set of tests, including the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Dynamic Visual Acuity (DVA), and Gaze Stabilization Test (GST), in comparison with a control group of age-matched individuals with normal hearing.

METHODS

Twenty-six adult CI users (11 males, 15 females), aged 18-36 years, were included. Vestibular function and balance were evaluated using computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) to measure sensory organization, dynamic visual acuity, and gaze stabilization. The study group was compared with a control group of 26 age-matched individuals with normal hearing. Correlation analyses were conducted to assess the influence of CI use duration and age on test outcomes. Statistical comparisons between groups were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test and the Wilcoxon test.

RESULTS

CI users performed significantly worse than controls in five of the six SOT conditions (p < 0.05), and the composite scores also showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.000). No statistically significant differences were observed in DVA and GST performance (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between CI use duration or age and test performance. These results indicate deficits in sensory integration and postural control in CI users.

CONCLUSION

This study provided valuable insight into the vestibular challenges faced by cochlear implant users, revealing significant differences in balance and sensory integration compared to normal-hearing individuals. The findings have significant clinical implications, suggesting the need for individualized vestibular rehabilitation strategies incorporating sensory reweighting exercises, dynamic balance training, and virtual reality-based therapies to enhance post-operative quality of life.