When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme 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 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, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest help, particularly in improving speech comprehension
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with significant to severe hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Committed to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to examine the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Exploring goals, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange needs
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language abilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can happen slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either instance.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will work together to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the best option, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves going through a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it might be beneficial to consider 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/.