Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level 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 difficulty understanding speech in spite of 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 examine it more thoroughly!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables 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, positioned underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work together to enhance hearing for people who receive minimal or no assistance from conventional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere help, particularly in improving speech comprehension
- Motivation 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
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who get minimal help from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and stay socially connected
- Committed to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining goals, expected outcomes, and information exchange requirements
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for children
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if needed, lead you through the next stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, 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, entails undergoing a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient help, it could 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/.