Investigating the Neural Oscillatory Features for Limited Access to Oral Language in Deaf Children With Early Bilateral Cochlear Implantation

Children with severe-to-profound congenital hearing loss often experience significant language development challenges. While cochlear implants (CIs) can restore auditory input, outcomes vary widely, even among those who receive implants early (before age 2) and undergo consistent speech therapy. This study aims to identify neural mechanisms underlying these differences.

Inclusion Criteria: * Between 4 and 17 years old at time of inclusion * Age of first implantation less than or equal to 30 months * Bilateral CIs * Received CIs simultaneously or sequentially (the interval between two implantations does not exceed 18 months) * Congenital severe-to-profound hearing loss (PTA ≥90 dB HL) Exclusion Criteria: * Children with severe associated disabilities who are assessed as unable to complete the tasks * Patients who, in the medical opinion of the Investigator, are unlikely to comply with the study protocol