When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing impairment and continue to have difficulty understanding speech despite using hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and positioned 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 improve hearing for individuals who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Ideal candidates generally meet the following requirements:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with substantial to severe hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and stay connected to others
- Committed to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using 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
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Exploring goals, anticipated results, 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 development of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
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-altering option in either case.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Typically, this assessment involves:
The team will collaborate to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to look into 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/.
