When hearing aids aren’t enough, 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 strain to understand speech, even with 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 have a closer look!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged parts of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.

Cochlear implants are composed of:

• An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
• An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned beneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure

They work together to improve hearing for people who receive minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids

General candidacy guidelines

Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:

• Significant hearing impairment in both ears
• Hearing aids are giving mediocere help, particularly in improving speech comprehension
• Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the results of implants
• Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  rehabilitation

Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children

Early implantation is important for kids, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:

• Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
• Children aged 2 and above with significant to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with traditional hearing aids
• Kids who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, academic accomplishment, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:

  • Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
  • Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
  • Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
  • Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming

  Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either case.

  Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

  Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this evaluation involves:

  • A full hearing exam with and without 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 assess inner ear anatomy
  • Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Examining objectives, expected outcomes, and information exchange requirements

  The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.

  Bringing back sound to improve life connections

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves undergoing a customized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.

  If your hearing aids are no longer giving adequate help, it may be beneficial to consider 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/.

  The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.