The South African Cochlear Implant Group (SACIG) held its 2025 conference from May 9 to May 11 at the stunning Vineyard Hotel in Cape Town. This year, Cape Hearing Implants (CHi) hosted the conference under the leadership of Dr Louis Hofmeyr, Chairman of SACIG. The event was a significant opportunity for participants across various fields to engage in meaningful dialogue about cochlear implantation, hearing loss, and related medical advancements.
Exemplary Organization by Take Note Events
The conference’s success owes much to the impeccable organisation executed by Joey Swart of Take Note Events. Her exceptional ability to manage the complexities of such an extensive gathering did not go unnoticed, nor did the contributions of her colleagues, Lindi and Michael, who played pivotal roles in facilitating the smooth flow of events. Their professionalism and attention to detail were evident throughout the conference, showcasing their capability to host successful gatherings that are both informative and engaging.
High Attendance and Broad Participation
The SACIG 2025 conference was marked by a commendable attendance rate from those actively involved in cochlear implantation and from participants interested in the broader implications of hearing health. This cross-disciplinary interest underlined the necessity for collaboration across the medical field, particularly in a rapidly evolving discipline like cochlear implantation. The dialogue initiated during this conference will drive future advancements and collaborative efforts.
A Successful Blend of Education and Entertainment
The conference was educational and entertaining, creating an environment conducive to learning and networking. Support from trade delegations enriched the conference experience, providing insights into the broader context of hearing and hearing loss. The exchange of knowledge and resources allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hearing health.
Exploring the Theme: “Soundscapes for Health”
This year’s theme, “Soundscapes for Health,” resonated throughout the conference and was particularly poignant given that it coincided with Mother’s Day. The theme highlights the integral relationship between sound and well-being, emphasising the significance of auditory experiences in our daily lives. Experts and participants shared valuable perspectives on how soundscapes influence emotional, cognitive, and social health, further emphasising the relevance of this subject within the context of cochlear implantation.
Recognizing Our Esteemed Speakers
The conference featured a distinguished lineup of international and local speakers who shared their expertise and insights. Internationally, we were privileged to hear from Professor Ingo Todt, Professor Thomas Lenarz, Professor Karin Gordon, and Professor Uma Soman, each contributing uniquely to the dialogue surrounding cochlear implantation.
- Professor Ingo Todt engaged participants through discussions on vertigo, MRI applications in cochlear implantation, and the importance of hearing preservation in surgical practices.
- Professor Thomas Lenarz brought forth his decades of experience, highlighting delicate nuances in cochlear implant techniques, robotics, and intraoperative electrocochleography, which aids hearing preservation and precision surgery.
- Professor Karin Gordon addressed the implications of single-sided deafness and its effects on outcomes, bringing to light the aetiology of hearing loss and its relevance to cochlear implantation.
- Lastly, Professor Uma Soman’s insights into defining success in cochlear implantation for children underscored the significant influence of family dynamics and parental involvement in achieving satisfactory outcomes.
Local expert participation
Local experts also shared valuable insights, discussing research at Universities, the auditory brainstem program’s achievements, engineering advancements in cochlear models, facial nerve involvement, and the outcomes of challenging case studies. These contributions further enriched the conference content, illuminating the local landscape of cochlear implantation.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The SACIG 2025 conference has fostered an environment of collaboration, education, and innovation, paving the way for future endeavours in cochlear implantation and hearing health. The positive feedback from attendees and speakers accentuates such gatherings’ importance in nurturing professional relationships and advancing our collective understanding of hearing health. As we continue to explore the transformative impact of cochlear implants and strive for improved patient outcomes, the collaborative spirit ignited during this conference will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of this vital field.
