Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals 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 prospect? Let’s examine it more carefully!
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 areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
They work in unison to enhance hearing for individuals who get minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
General candidacy guidelines
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, especially with comprehending speech
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with significant to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- 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
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or quickly in adults, either because of 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.
The assessment process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will collaborate to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized evaluation with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to explore 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/.
