Evaluation of sensory processing and language skills in children using different auditory implants

In this study, it was aimed to examine the effects of sensory processing skills on language development of children using cochlear implant and auditory brainstem implant. In accordance with this purpose; age range of 5-9 years with no additional disability 20 children with using auditory brainstem implant (Auditory Brainstem Implant, ABI), 20 children with using cochlear implant (Coclear Implant, CI) and 20 healthy children without hearing loss included in the study. The 'Sensory Profile' to assess sensory processing skills and the 'Turkish School Age Language Development Test' (TODİL) to assess language skills were administered to all children. As a result of the study, it was found TODİL's scaled scores of relational vocabulary, word description, sentence repetition and morpheme completion subtests, raw scores of phonological analysis and articulation complementary tests, and index scores of listening, speaking, oral language and organizing resultant performances were higher in children using CI than children using ABI, with a statistically significant difference (p<0,05). Hearing, vision, vestibular and oral sensory processing mean scores of the Sensory Profile were higher in the healthy group and the group using CI compared to the group using ABI, and a statistically significant difference was found (p<0,05). The mean scores of modulation, behavior-emotional responses sections were higher in the healthy group than in the groups using CI and ABI, and a statistically significant difference was found (p<0,05). A statistically significant relationship was found between visual processing and seeking behavior towards sensory stimuli and TODİL resultant performances in the children using ABI. In the children using CI, a statistically significant relationship was found between sensory processing, emotional-social responses and recording skills related to endurance and tone, and TODİL resultant performances. It is believed that investigating the effect of sensory processing skills on language development in children using auditory implants will be useful in explaining the factors for delayed language,academic and learning developments and further will be heplful in determining the most effective intervention strategies in the auditory rehabilitation program.