When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have trouble 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 examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
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 beneath the skin and within the cochlea
They work together to improve hearing for people who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
Basic candidacy standards
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Limited results from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the results of implants
- Adherence to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive limited benefit from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- 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 rerquirments
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, especially in regard to the development of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or suddenly in adults, either due to 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 instance.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will collaborate to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the right solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about 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 look into 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/.
