Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for people who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble understanding speech despite 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 have 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, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the results of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to extreme 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 extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Exploring objectives, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Some people lose hearing slowly over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting evaluated for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this assessment involves:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if needed, lead you through the next stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves undergoing a personalized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient assistance, it might be helpful to think about cochlear implants.
Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and find out 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/.
