Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble comprehending speech in spite of using hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more thoroughly!

What is a cochlear implant?

Cochlear implants work by exciting the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged sections of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This allows the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.

Components of cochlear implants:

• An external sound processor, which is positioned behind the ear
• An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure

They work together to improve hearing for people who get minimal or no assistance from traditional hearing aids

General candidacy standards

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

• Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
• Minimal benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
• Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the results of implants
• Adherence to ongoing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids

Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:

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

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

Cochlear Implants for Adults

Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:

• Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
• Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
• Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain connected to others
• Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming

Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression 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.

Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

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

• A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
• Speech recognition testing
• A hearing aid trial, 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 objectives, anticipated results, and information exchange needs

The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.

Restoring sound, reconnecting lives

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

If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient assistance, it might be beneficial to consider cochlear implants.

Reach out to 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/.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.