Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. 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. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether somebody is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s have a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged sections of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work together to improve hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no assistance from conventional hearing aids
Basic candidacy standards
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Ideal candidates generally meet the following requirements:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal results from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the results of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and above with significant to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, educational achievement, and social growth. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
- Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
Hearing loss can occur slowly or quickly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either case.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this evaluation involves:
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining objectives, expected results, and information exchange needs
The team will work together to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the right solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a personalized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to explore 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/.
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is crucial for children, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: