Cochlear implants can offer a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals 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 examine it more thoroughly!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work together to improve hearing for people who receive minimal or no assistance from conventional hearing aids
General candidacy standards
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Minimal results from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Incentive and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who get limited help from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Dedicated to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, 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 professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining goals, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange requirements
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is key for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it abruptly as a result of illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either instance.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to significantly improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a customized evaluation 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.
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/.