When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s take a closer look!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.

Cochlear implants consist of:

• A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
• An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted beneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure

Collectively, they help recover 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 kids and adults. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:

• Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
• Minimal benefit from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
• Motivation and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
• Adherence to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Cochlear implants for children

Early implantation is important for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific

conditions:

• Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing loss in both ears
• Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive minimal help from hearing aids
• Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, academic achievement, and social progress. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
  loss.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:

  • Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
  • Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
  • Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain connected to others
  • Dedicated to taking part in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

  Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing option in either instance.

  The assessment process

  Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:

  • A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
  • Speech recognition testing
  • Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
  • Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
  • Meeting 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 work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.

  Restoring sound, reconnecting lives

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a personalized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.

  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/.

  The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.