When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who still struggle to comprehend 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 prospect? Let’s have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating 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
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Limited results from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who get minimal help from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic 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:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either case.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Usually, this evaluation involves:
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. 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 giving adequate assistance, it could be beneficial to think about cochlear implants.
Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and find out 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/.