Impact of Cochlear Implants on the auditory development of children under 6 years old with profound hearing loss

Abstract

Introduction: Profound hearing loss in childhood represents a significant challenge to children's overall development, affecting auditory perception, language acquisition, communication, and social integration. Objective: To characterize the impact of cochlear implants on auditory development in children under 6 years of age with profound hearing loss, considering factors such as age at implantation, duration of device use, and social and family environment. Methods: A narrative review was conducted based on articles indexed in PubMed and MEDLINE, published between 2010 and 2025. Relevant studies on profound hearing loss and cochlear implants were included, including systematic reviews, review articles, observational studies, and case reports that addressed clinical, pathophysiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of children with hearing loss who have received implants.Analysis of information: Hearing during the early years is essential for neurocognitive and linguistic development, and its absence severely limits the capacity for interaction and learning. Cochlear implants directly stimulate the auditory nerve using electrical impulses, enabling sound perception in patients with severe cochlear damage. Conclusions: Early cochlear implantation is essential for children's auditory and linguistic development. Although implantation in Cuba is typically performed later than international recommendations, intensive rehabilitation, consistent use of the device, and family support allow for significant results in auditory and communicative integration.