Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain to understand 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 examine it more thoroughly!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.

Cochlear implants are composed of:

• A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
• During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and inside the cochlea

They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids

key guidelines for a cochlear implant

Both children and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

• Significant hearing impairment in both ears
• Minimal results from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
• Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
• Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  rehabilitation

Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children

Timely placement of implants is essential for children, especially in regard to the development of their speech and language capabilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified

conditions:

• Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
• Children aged 2 and older with substantial to severe hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
• Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time

Early intervention helps ensure the best possible results for language acquisition, academic success, and social development. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.

Cochlear Implants for Adults

Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:

• Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
• Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
• Have a strong desire to communicate and stay socially connected
• Committed to participating in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either case.

Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:

• A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
• Testing for speech recognition
• Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
• 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
• Exploring objectives, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs

The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate option and, if needed, lead you through the next stages.

Restoring sound, reconnecting lives

Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a personalized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.

If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it could be helpful to think about 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/.