Cochlear implants can provide a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble comprehending speech in spite of using 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 examine it more carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply 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.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
Together, they help restore access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from conventional hearing aids.
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Ideal candidates generally meet the following requirements:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing 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 think their children may have hearing loss, they are advised to take quick action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
Hearing loss can occur slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic variables. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either instance.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a thorough evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using 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 assess 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 option and, if necessary, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient help, it may be beneficial to consider 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/.
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly regarding the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: