Auditory Neuropathy and Cochlear Implantation
Ms. Patricia Trautwein, Ann Levi

An is a relatively new classification of a hearing disorder characterized by extremely poor speech discrimination regardless of the audiometric thresholds. Patients typically present with an absent ABR but present OAES and CM. Case management typically includes a trial with conventional forms of amplification and assistive listening devices. In some cases, a cochlear implant may be an option. Many of the patients are enrolled in rehabilitation programs with an emphasis on lip reading or visual modes of communication (sign language, cued speech). Close monitoring of pediatric cases is recommended to ensure appropriate language skills are developed.