Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still struggle 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 prospect? Let’s have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged sections of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Ideal candidates typically meet the following requirements:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere help, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to severe hearing loss, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Committed to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to examine the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, particularly in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or quickly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic factors. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Typically, this evaluation involves:
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if necessary, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient assistance, it might 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/.