Strategy and Effects of Early Intervention in Surdology

Abstract

Congenital hearing loss presents important handicap in development of a child because it considerably impacts, not only listening, but speech-language development, cognition and education as well. Hearing impairment is the most frequent congenital sensory defect that affects 1-3 in 1000 newborn babies. Regardless of dynamic development of genetics and other diagnostic procedures etiology of congenital hearing loss still remains unknown in 50% of cases. Early intervention in surdology tends to minimize consequences of congenital deafness. Surdologists insist on early intervention for congenital hearing loss considering the fact that early amplification and rehabilitation should be applied during first 3.5 years of life, while plasticity of central nervous system is maximal. During previous five-year period, from 2006 to 2010, the authors have observed very low rate of early intervention and therefore advocate the need for change of strategy in everyday clinical practice. Strategy for minimizing deleterious effects of congenital hearing loss is based on Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program which will be explained in details. The objective of the study is to evaluate actual strategy of early intervention in surdology. Effects of early intervention for congenital hearing loss in children treated in Audiology Rehabilitation Department of Clinic for ENT and HNS over a period 2006-2010 were analyzed.