When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still struggle to understand speech, even with 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 examine it more carefully!
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 areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work together to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Minimal results from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
- Adherence to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with substantial to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience major 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 trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Committed to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
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.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either case.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Usually, this assessment involves:
The team will collaborate to identify if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if needed, lead you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering 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 giving adequate help, it might be beneficial to think about cochlear implants.
Contact 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/.