We are pleased to share the 2024 Living Guidelines for Adult CI, as summarized by CIICA, provide updated recommendations for optimizing cochlear implantation outcomes. They aim to bridge the gap between the latest scientific advancements and practical, real-world applications, providing an actionable framework and evidence-based recommendations to improve access to cochlear implants and address the needs of adults with hearing loss. 

The guidelines cover the entire patient journey, from initial hearing loss screening to cochlear implantation and subsequent rehabilitation. They advocate for a thorough pre-operative evaluation to ensure patients are suitable candidates for the procedure, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment plans tailored to individual hearing needs.

Key recommendations include routine hearing loss screening for adults starting at age 50, with referrals for cochlear implant evaluations based on specific hearing loss criteria. The guidelines emphasize the importance of timely cochlear implant activation and programming, followed by structured follow-up appointments. Rehabilitation should be multidisciplinary, involving ENT specialists, audiologists, and speech therapists, with a focus on both initial and ongoing support to maximize the benefits of cochlear implants. 

EFHOH continues supporting development of the guidelines and we will bring more updates as they come along. 

For more detailed information, CIICA’s summary of the Living Guidelines can be found at: https://ciicanet.org/resources/ciicas-summary-of-the-living-guidelines-for-adult-ci/