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 extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating 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 are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who receive minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
Basic candidacy guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Minimal benefit from hearing aids, especially with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with significant to severe hearing loss, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and stay socially connected
- Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is key for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others might lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
The assessment process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this evaluation involves:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if needed, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves going through 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 look into cochlear implants.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover if you or your child is a candidate!
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/.
