The two cochlear implant surgeries in Beijing (on children from Kunming) were both great successes. The surgeries went very well and were observed by more than 15 top surgeons from China. Two kids were implanted:

Wang JunRong

Liu HongYi

HongYi's ear was a challenge as she has Mondini's syndrome. In her Left ear the cochlea was developed to about one turn (normal is 2.5 turns). In the other (R) ear it was almost one and a half turns. Dr. Roberson implanted the right ear and was able to get a curved electrode into the perfect position to give her optimal hearing (although her family should expect less hearing than if her cochlea was fully developed). In the past, she had received some benefit from hearing aids, so we are hopeful for her excellent progress.

The surgeries were attended by about 15 surgeons and 30 people overall. The facility at Friendship Hospital was perfect for the event. Dr. Zhang at the Friendship Hospital was an outstanding host. The two surgeries were followed by two more hours of questions and answers with the surgeons who attended. Overall, it was an very successful day for all people involved.

Let Them Hear Foundation surgeon, Joseph Roberson, MD, plans on operating on one additional child from Kunming when he is in Chengdu this May.