Interaktivní pomůcky pro spolupráci při nastavování kochleárních implantátů

Abstract

The correct fitting of cochlear implants is crucial for optimal hearing in children and for their proper speech development and perception of sounds. This work focuses on creating an interactive tool to assist in the fitting of cochlear implants for pediatric patients. The purpose of this work is to develop a tool that enhances communication between the fitting engineer and the child during the cochlear implant fitting process. Currently, no such tool has been developed, and it could provide a better alternative to picture-based or numerical scales, which are currently used for communication between the fitting engineer and the child to determine how the child hears and perceives sounds. Based on the child's feedback, the fitting engineer can properly adjust the cochlear implant. This work examines existing tools for working with children with hearing impairments. Additionally, it explores the process of hearing with a cochlear implant, cochlear implantation procedures, and the challenges of cochlear implant fitting. The interactive tool takes the form of a small box with five buttons and five LED lights and utilizes a Nextion Enhanced NX8048K070 7.0" 800 x 480 TFT display, controlled by an Arduino Mega 2560 Rev3 development board. A software was programmed for this hardware, designed to light up an LED after each button press and to reward the child with an image displayed on the screen, serving as motivation for the child’s engagement and cooperation with the fitting engineer. Testing of the interactive tool confirmed its functionality and contributed to improved cooperation and communication between the child and the fitting engineer. In practice, the tool facilitated the process of cochlear implant fitting and enabled more efficient and precise fitting of the cochlear implant based on the child's feedback.