Cochlear implants can offer a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for people who have moderate to extreme hearing impairment and continue to have trouble comprehending speech in spite of using hearing aids. So, who can benefit from a cochlear implant, and how do you know if you or a loved one is a good prospect? Let’s have a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, avoiding 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 are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work together to improve hearing for individuals who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
Basic candidacy guidelines
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Ideal candidates typically meet the following requirements:
- Significant hearing impairment in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving mediocere assistance, especially in increasing speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Adherence to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Children aged 2 and older with significant to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
- Kids who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational achievement, and social growth. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
- Dedicated to taking part in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
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 variables. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A comprehensive hearing examination 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 examine the structure of the inner ear
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs
The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if needed, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re considering this option 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 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/.
Cochlear implants for children
Early implantation is important for kids, particularly when it comes to speech and language progression. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: