Cochlear implants can provide a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These little, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether somebody is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located 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 together to enhance hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest assistance, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Incentive and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to severe hearing loss, who do not experience major 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
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Committed to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- 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 expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Examining objectives, expected results, and information exchange needs
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for children, especially regarding the advancement of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. 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 due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
The assessment process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial 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 sufficient help, 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/.