When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound 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 prospect? Let’s examine it more thoroughly!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and understand auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and inside the cochlea
Together, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy standards
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, especially with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the results of implants
- Dedication to ongoing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, academic accomplishment, and social progress. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either instance.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Examining goals, anticipated results, and information exchange needs
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to look into 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/.
Cochlear implants for kids
Timely placement of implants is crucial for children, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: