Cochlear implants can provide a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for people who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble understanding speech despite 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 prospect? Let’s have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged sections of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This allows the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work in unison to improve hearing for individuals who get minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
key guidelines for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Adherence to continuing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to severe hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Cochlear implants for children
Early implantation is important for children, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific
conditions:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined 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 option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The preliminary 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 may be beneficial 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/.