Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have difficulty comprehending speech despite using hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and inside the cochlea
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from traditional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy standards
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest help, especially in improving speech comprehension
- Incentive and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
- 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
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and stay socially connected
- Dedicated to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs
Cochlear implants for children
Early implantation is key for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language development. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others might lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a comprehensive exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if needed, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient assistance, it may be helpful to think about cochlear implants.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover 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/.