When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound 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 somebody is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s take a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from traditional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy standards
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Ideal candidates generally meet the following requirements:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Are willing to participate in ongoing 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 completed 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
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
Cochlear implants for kids
Early implantation is important for children, especially when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early treatment helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Hearing loss can happen slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic variables. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
The evaluation process
Qualification for a cochlear implant is evaluated 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 right solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it may be beneficial to think about 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/.