After the excitement and anticipation leading up to a cochlear implant (CI)手术, it's natural for patients to have concerns about their decision. While many people experiencing hearing loss find relief and improved quality of life with CI surgery, a significant number may experience regret post-operatively.
Regret Overview
After植入手术, between 1% and 10% of patients may regret their decision[^1^]. This regret can stem from various reasons, including perceived performance limitations, dissatisfaction with the device's performance, and the perception that the surgery was unnecessary.
Causes of Regret
- Device Performance
- Perceived Limited Benefits
- Psychological Impact
- Misaligned Expectations
Device Performance
Often, patients have high expectations for the technological advancements offered by CI systems[^38^], and while many CI systems provide substantial improvements over custom-made hearing aids, they may still fall short in specific aspects:
- Speech Discrimination
- Environmental Noise Rejection
- Listening Distance
- High-Frequency Sound Perception
The variability in device performance across different patients and the subtle differences in how patients perceive the device's effectiveness can lead to regret[^24^].
Perceived Limited Benefits
Patients may perceive that the CI, despite their improvements, still does not fully meet their expectations[^22^]. This feeling of underperformance, particularly in noisy environments, can provoke regret.
Psychological Impact
Surgery carries significant psychological consequences[^12^], and the anxiety and stress associated with the procedure can amplify feelings of regret if the experience does not meet initial expectations.
Misaligned Expectations
The process of CI surgery and its immediate aftermath can be confusing and overwhelming. Misaligned expectations about what the surgery entails and the expected impact can lead to regret even if the device eventually performs within acceptable limits[^14^].
Risk Factors for Regret
Age, preoperative hearing loss severity, and cognitive function are among the factors that may predict the development of regret[^44^].
Solutions and Support
Understanding the full extent of CI performance limitations is crucial for managing realistic expectations[^21^], and early support through patient education, counseling, and rehabilitation programs can help patients adjust to living with a CI.
It's important to recognize that while regret is a common consideration for patients considering a CI, it is often treatable[^39^] through targeted supportive interventions and ongoing care. Talking to other CI users, seeking expert advice, and understanding the long-term implications of CI technology can empower patients to move forward with confidence. By addressing these concerns early on, patients can take steps to mitigate regret and optimize their experience with a CI.
