When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to extreme hearing impairment and continue to have trouble comprehending 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 examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and within the cochlea
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy standards
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Motivation and reasonable expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who get minimal help from hearing aids
- Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational achievement, and social progress. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The assessment process
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Usually, this assessment involves:
- A comprehensive hearing examination 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 doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if necessary, walk you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can significantly improve communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves going through a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might 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/.
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is important for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: