When is a Cochlear Implant the Most Effective Solution for Hearing Loss?

Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with 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 take a closer look!

What is a cochlear implant?

Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.

Cochlear implants consist of:

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

Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from conventional hearing aids.

primary guidelines for a cochlear implant

Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:

• Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
• Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
• Motivation and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
• Dedication to ongoing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Cochlear implants for kids

Early implantation is key for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:

• 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 major improvement with traditional hearing aids
• Kids who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational accomplishment, and social progress. 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 severe hearing loss in one or both ears
  • Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
  • Have a strong ambition to communicate and remain socially connected
  • Committed to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

  Hearing loss can occur slowly or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic variables. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.

  Getting assessed for cochlear implants

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

  • A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
  • Testing for speech recognition
  • A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
  • Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
  • Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
  • Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication 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 hearing, reconnecting lives

  Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. The preliminary step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves going through a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.

  If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate help, it could be beneficial to consider cochlear implants.

  Reach out to 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/.