Cochlear implants can provide a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have difficulty understanding speech in spite of using hearing aids. So, who can benefit from a cochlear implant, and how do you know if you or a loved one is a good prospect? Let’s take a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned beneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help restore access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from traditional hearing aids.
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Minimal results from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive minimal benefit from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Examining goals, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is important for kids, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or quickly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a thorough evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if needed, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it may be beneficial to consider cochlear implants.
Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and find out if you or your child is a candidate!
Sources:.
– https://www.healthline.com/health/cochlear-implant.
– https://www.med.unc.edu/ent/adultcochlearimplant/cochlear-implants/cochlear-implant-.
evaluation-process/.
– https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/professionals/products-and-.
candidacy/candidacy/cochlear-implant.
– https://www.childrensent.com/blog/who-qualifies-for-pediatric-cochlear-implants-a-.
comprehensive-guide/.
