When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have difficulty 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!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants work by exciting 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:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
General candidacy standards
Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with significant to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language skills, educational achievement, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take quick action.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
Hearing loss can happen slowly or quickly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering solution in either instance.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Eligibility for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this assessment involves:
- A comprehensive hearing examination using and not using hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Exploring goals, anticipated results, and information exchange needs
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if necessary, lead you through the next stages.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the initial 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 explore 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 children
Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, particularly regarding the development of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: