Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to extreme 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 candidate? 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 parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater 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
Together, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy guidelines
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest help, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with significant to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- 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 analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will collaborate to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly improve communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to explore 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/.