When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain to comprehend speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s take a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and within the cochlea
Collectively, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving mediocere assistance, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social growth. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
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 scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The assessment process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a comprehensive exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the best solution, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves going through a customized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient help, it could 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/.