When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, 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 severe hearing loss and continue to have difficulty comprehending speech in spite of 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 prospect? Let’s take a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged sections of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work in unison to enhance hearing for individuals who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids
key guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere help, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Adherence to ongoing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with significant to severe hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic accomplishment, 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:
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The assessment process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this evaluation involves:
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs
The team will collaborate to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right solution, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with an expert 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/.
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is key for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: