Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have difficulty understanding 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 candidate? Let’s examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This allows the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from conventional hearing aids.
General candidacy guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Attributes of Suitable 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
rehabilitation - Kids as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to severe hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, academic accomplishment, and social progress. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay connected to others
- Dedicated to taking part in consistent 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. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either instance.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using 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
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Exploring objectives, expected results, and information exchange needs
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly improve communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with a qualified hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving adequate help, it may be beneficial to consider 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/.
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: