When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to comprehend speech, even with 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 take a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving mediocere assistance, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Incentive and reasonable expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Dedication to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited benefit from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
- Dedicated to taking part in consistent 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
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Examining objectives, expected results, and information exchange requirements
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is key for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:
Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if necessary, walk you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re considering this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with an expert hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to look into cochlear implants.
Contact 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/.
