Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These little, surgically implanted devices are designed for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain 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 candidate? Let’s examine it more carefully!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.

Cochlear implants consist of:

• A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
• An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned beneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure

They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids

primary guidelines for a cochlear implant

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

• Significant hearing impairment in both ears
• Hearing aids are giving modest help, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
• Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the results of implants
• Adherence to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children

Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, particularly regarding the development of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified

conditions:

• Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
• Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience major improvement with traditional hearing aids
• Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time

Early treatment helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.

Adult cochlear implants

Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:

• Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
• Experience trouble understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
• Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
• Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

Hearing loss can happen slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.

The evaluation process

Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:

• A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
• Speech recognition testing
• A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
• 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 goals, anticipated results, and information exchange needs

The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if needed, lead you through the subsequent stages.

Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives

Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through 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 think about cochlear implants.

Reach out to 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/.

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.