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 individuals who have moderate to severe hearing impairment and continue to have difficulty understanding speech in spite of using hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This allows the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.
Components of cochlear implants:
- 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 people who get minimal or no help from traditional hearing aids
Basic candidacy guidelines
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere assistance, particularly in improving speech comprehension
- Incentive and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
- Adherence to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- 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 minimal help from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- 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
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining objectives, expected results, and information exchange requirements
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible results for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing option in either case.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Typically, this evaluation involves:
The team will work together 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 everybody, but for the right candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re thinking about this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to look into cochlear implants.
Reach out to 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/.