When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with 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 have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Collectively, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Suitable candidates typically meet the following requirements:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest help, especially in improving speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited help from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
- Dedicated to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using 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
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Exploring objectives, anticipated results, and information exchange requirements
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is important for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others might lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if necessary, walk you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient 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/.