Who’s a Good Prospect for a Cochlear Implant?

When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little, 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 somebody is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s take a closer look!

What is a cochlear implant?

Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged sections of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.

Components of cochlear implants:

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

They work in unison to improve hearing for individuals who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids

Basic candidacy guidelines

Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:

• Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
• Limited results from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
• Motivation and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
• Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  rehabilitation

Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for children

Early implantation is important for kids, especially when it comes to speech and language progression. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specified

conditions:

• 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 get minimal benefit from hearing aids
• Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from timely support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic achievement, and social growth. If parents think their children may have hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:

  • Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
  • Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing aids
  • Possess a deep need to express yourself and remain linked to others
  • Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming

  Some people lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or hereditary conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing option in either instance.

  Getting assessed for cochlear implants

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

  • A full hearing test with and without 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 doctor or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
  • Examining goals, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange requirements

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

  Restoring sound, reconnecting lives

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, 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 first step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.

  If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate 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/.