Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing impairment and continue to have difficulty comprehending speech in spite of using 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 take a closer look!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- 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
They work together to improve hearing for people who receive minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
General candidacy guidelines
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest help, particularly in improving speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to ongoing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with substantial to severe hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
- Committed to taking part in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed 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
- Exploring goals, anticipated results, and information exchange needs
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is crucial for children, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either because of a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this assessment involves:
The team will collaborate to identify if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a customized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it might be helpful to think about 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/.