Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have difficulty understanding 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 examine it more thoroughly!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants work by exciting the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the results of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited help from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and stay connected to others
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- 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 specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining goals, expected results, and information exchange requirements
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for children
Early implantation is key for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can happen slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either case.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Typically, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the best option, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. The preliminary 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.
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/.