When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for individuals who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have difficulty understanding speech despite 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 have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest help, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
- Dedication to ongoing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining goals, anticipated results, and information exchange needs
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, especially in regard to the development of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this evaluation involves:
The team will work together to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to look into cochlear implants.
If you think you or your child is a candidate for cochlear implants, schedule an appointment now!
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/.
