Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have trouble comprehending speech in spite of using hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. 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, positioned beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Collectively, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no benefit from conventional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with significant to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience major improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational achievement, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either instance.
The assessment process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Exploring objectives, expected results, and information exchange needs
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best solution, and if so, assist you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient help, it could be helpful to consider 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, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: