When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to profound 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 candidate? Let’s take a closer look!
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 enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with better clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- 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
Together, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest assistance, especially in improving speech comprehension
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major 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 make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
- Committed to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Examining goals, anticipated results, and information exchange requirements
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is important for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. 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:
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering 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 look into cochlear implants.
Reach out to 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/.
