When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still struggle to comprehend 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 have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
They work in unison to improve hearing for people who receive minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to continuing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who get minimal help from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have severe hearing loss 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 participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without 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
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Examining objectives, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange requirements
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is key for kids, particularly 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 growth. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The assessment process
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive examination 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 necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves undergoing a personalized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient help, it might be beneficial 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/.