The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
Bilateral, profound-severe, congenital deafness causes widespread structural and functional changes of the auditory system. In humans, the consequences of these changes are extensive and often include detriments to language acquisition and auditory perception. Fortunately, early intervention methods, such as cochlear implantation, can significantly mitigate inevitable auditory deficiencies. This review begins by briefly addressing early stages of brain development and associated anatomical discrepancies observed in congenitally deaf subjects. Considering the deleterious effects of congenital deafness, neuroplasticity, the ability of the brain to rewire itself, is of paramount importance in reversing the auditory impairments. Hence, its incorporation into the methods required for successful auditory rehabilitation. Despite this phenomena, assistive devices such as the cochlear implant have shown a marked decrease in efficacy after a critical period has elapsed. Although the scientific community has made incredible gains in the understanding of neurogenesis and congenital deafness, additional research is required to concretize age-related limitations inherent in neural plasticity and provide further advances in congenital deafness intervention methods.
Recommended Citation
Fliegelman, J. (2020). What Role does Age-Associated Neuroplasticity Play in the Efficacy of Cochlear Implantation?. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 14(1), 14-21. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol14/iss1/2
