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Scientific Oral Presentations

Otology/Neurotology

Session: Scientific Oral Presentations 1 - Otology/Neurotology

Familial Psychosocial Impact of Cochlear Implantation: A Pilot Study

Saturday, October 11, 2025
10:12 AM - 10:18 AM EDT
Location: 239
Disclosure(s):
Brian P. Quinlan, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Brian J. McKinnon, MD, MBA, MPH, FACS:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Introduction: This project identifies the similarities and differences in the psychosocial impact of cochlear implantation (CI) on the adult who received the CI and on their family members. This provides insight into the extent of the impact of CI on individuals other than the implanted user and supplies the basis for discussion about the implications of CI on members of the family unit.

Methods: This study utilizes a survey-based design and was conducted between June 1, 2024, and July 31, 2024, with participants recruited via the Hearing Loss Association of America Houston Chapter. Novel surveys, administered via REDCap, assess social integration, psychological health, and general well-being as outcome measures, while independent variables include demographic factors and participant roles. CI users responses are paired to family members and then analyzed for correlations and trends. Preliminary analysis revealed congruent impacts in the psychosocial health between CI recipients and family members.

Results: Cochlear implant (CI) recipients consistently report significant improvements in psychosocial outcomes, with 87.5% (7/8) of users indicating better or far better ability to participate in conversations and social activities. In contrast, only 62.5% (5/8) of family members reported similar improvements in their own social integration and willingness to engage socially. Regarding satisfaction with social life, 75% (6/8) of CI users reported improvements, compared to 50% (4/8) of family members. Overall, while 87.5% (7/8) of CI users experienced significant psychosocial benefits, family members showed more variable results, with spouses generally benefiting more than younger relatives.

Conclusions: Cochlear implant users report substantial psychosocial benefits, with 87.5% experiencing improved social integration and satisfaction. However, family members show congruent, but more variable outcomes in the magnitude of change and occasionally even reported no difference. This emphasizes the need to consider family dynamics and individual differences when assessing the broader impact of CI.

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Brian P. Quinlan, MD

    PGY-1
    LSU Health Shreveport Dept of Otolaryngology
    Shreveport, LA, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Co-Author(s)

  • Brian P. Quinlan, MD

    PGY-1
    LSU Health Shreveport Dept of Otolaryngology
    Shreveport, LA, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

  • BM

    Brian J. McKinnon, MD, MBA, MPH, FACS

    Professor, Neurotology
    University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
    Galveston, TX, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Senior Author(s)

  • BM

    Brian J. McKinnon, MD, MBA, MPH, FACS

    Professor, Neurotology
    University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
    Galveston, TX, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.