Cochlear implants can offer 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 impairment and continue to have difficulty comprehending 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 candidate? Let’s examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help restore access to sound for people who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Minimal benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the results of implants
- Dedication to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Dedicated to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- 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
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children
Early implantation is important for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either case.
The assessment process
Eligibility 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 determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this option for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized assessment with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to explore cochlear implants.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover 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/.