When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss who still struggle to understand speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit 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?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with better clarity.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, inserted beneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.
Basic candidacy guidelines
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal benefit from hearing aids, especially with comprehending speech
- Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the outcomes of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive minimal help from hearing aids
- Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic achievement, and social progress. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
- Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
- Have a strong desire to communicate and stay socially connected
- Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming
Some adults lose hearing slowly over time, while others might lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring sound, reconnecting lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly improve communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re thinking about this option for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized assessment 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 discover 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
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for: