Comparison of two cochlear implant coding strategies on speech perception.

OBJECTIVE: Assess whether differences in speech perception are observed after exclusive listening experience with high-definition continuous interleaved sampling (HDCIS) versus fine structure processing (FSP) coding strategies.

METHODS: Subjects were randomly assigned at initial activation of the external speech processor to receive the HDCIS or FSP coding strategy. Frequency filter assignments were consistent across subjects. The speech perception test battery included CNC words in quiet, HINT sentences in quiet and steady noise (+10 dB SNR), AzBio sentences in quiet and a 10-talker babble (+10 dB SNR), and BKB-SIN. Assessment intervals included 1, 3, and 6 months post-activation.

RESULTS: Data from 22 subjects (11 with HDCIS and 11 with FSP) were assessed over time. Speech perception performance was not significantly different between groups.

DISCUSSION: Speech perception performance was not significantly different after 6 months of listening experience with the HDCIS or FSP coding strategy.