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 extreme hearing impairment and continue to have trouble comprehending 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 candidate? Let’s have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work together to enhance hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Adherence to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using 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 evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining objectives, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange requirements
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, especially regarding the development of their speech and language abilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can occur slowly or suddenly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient assistance, it could be helpful to think about cochlear implants.
Reach out to 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/.
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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
