Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to comprehend speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged sections of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work together to improve hearing for people who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
key guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Ideal candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing modest assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Kids as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who get limited benefit from hearing aids
- Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic accomplishment, and social progress. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take quick action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Committed to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
Hearing loss can happen gradually or quickly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either case.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might 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/.
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions: