Cochlear implants can provide a whole new degree of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to severe hearing loss and continue to have difficulty comprehending speech despite using hearing aids. Who can potentially gain from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s take a closer look!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and positioned behind it
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure
They work together to enhance hearing for individuals who get minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
primary guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal benefit 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 recovery
- Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing severe hearing impairment in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited help from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
- Committed to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs