Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) Celebrates 40th Anniversary of New South Wales First Adult Cochlear Implant

The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) recently marked a significant milestone in medical history, celebrating the 40th anniversary of implanting the New South Wales (AUS) first adult cochlear implant. The pioneering surgery, performed by esteemed ENT surgeon Professor Bill Gibson, transformed the landscape of hearing solutions and changed lives across the country.

The event honoured both Professor Gibson and Sue Walters, along with Dr. Halit Sanli, the bioengineer who worked alongside Professor Gibson. Dr. Sanli developed an array of electrophysiology procedures for testing the implant's performance during surgery and post-operatively, contributing significantly to the success of the procedure. Sue Walters, the recipient of the groundbreaking cochlear implant, had experienced profound hearing loss due to meningococcal meningitis at the age of 22. She became the first person in New South Wales to receive a cochlear implant. This life-changing experience sparked her passion for advocacy, leading her to co-found the Cochlear Implant Club & Advisory Association (CICADA), a volunteer support group dedicated to helping others with hearing impairments.

Over the past four decades, Sue Walters has dedicated her life to supporting and advocating for the hearing impaired through her work with CICADA. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2019 for her service to the hearing impaired.

Professor Gibson reflected on the achievement, expressing pride in the progress made in auditory science since that first surgery. "It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. The cochlear implant has opened doors to communication and connection for thousands of individuals."

Sue Walters also shared her experience, stating, "Receiving the implant was life-changing. I’m grateful for the work done by Professor Gibson, Dr. Sanli, and the team at RPA. This technology has not only given me back my hearing but has also given me a new purpose in life. She also took a moment to thank Professor Gibson's wife, Alex, acknowledging the couple's heartfelt support for the CICADA club, saying, "Bill and Alex opened their hearts to supporting CICADA, and their kindness has made a lasting difference in the lives of so many."

The anniversary celebration at RPA highlighted the profound impact of cochlear implants on individuals with hearing loss and reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to advancing medical innovation and patient care.