When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who still struggle to comprehend speech, even with 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 take a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- 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.
General candidacy guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Characteristics 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 results of implants
- 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 benefit from hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Have extreme 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 stay linked to others
- Committed to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate 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
Cochlear implants for children
Early implantation is important for kids, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified
conditions:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Hearing loss can happen gradually or quickly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is identified through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
The team will collaborate to identify if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if necessary, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be appropriate for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves undergoing a customized assessment 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.
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/.
