When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have difficulty comprehending speech in spite of using hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more thoroughly!
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 parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside 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 requirements for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Limited results from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with significant to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Committed to taking part in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Examining goals, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing option in either instance.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if necessary, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, self-reliance, 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 giving adequate assistance, it may be beneficial 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/.