Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing impairment and continue to have difficulty understanding 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 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, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- An external sound processor, which is placed 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 improve hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
key guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest assistance, particularly in improving speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the results of implants
- 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
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who get minimal benefit from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- 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 needs
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is important for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
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 assessment process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a personalized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate assistance, it might be helpful to think about cochlear implants.
If you think you or your child is a candidate for cochlear implants, schedule an appointment now!
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/.