When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with 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 have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work in unison to enhance hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
Basic candidacy guidelines
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 giving mediocere help, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the results of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive minimal benefit from hearing aids
- Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational achievement, and social growth. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Dedicated to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others might lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Usually, this assessment involves:
- A full hearing test with and without 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
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly improve communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a customized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving adequate help, it could be helpful to consider 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/.
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for children
Early implantation is important for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
