When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to severe hearing impairment and continue to have difficulty 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 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
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
General candidacy standards
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere assistance, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited help from hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic accomplishment, and social progress. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing option in either case.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- 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
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if needed, walk you through the next stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to explore cochlear implants.
Contact 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/.
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is key for children, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: