Angeborene gehörlosigkeit

Congenital deafness has extensive consequences for development of the auditory cortex. It affects the formation of neuronal networks, the representation of acoustic features, prevents estab-lishing of auditory categorial perception and initiates recruitment of the auditory cortex for non-auditory functions. Accompanied by a decrease in plasticity, these developmental effects influence the functionality of the auditory system, as well as its ability to learn. The ultimate consequence is the closure of sensitive developmental periods, during which sensory restoration leads to optimal outcomes.