When is a Cochlear Implant the Best Choice for Hearing Loss?

Cochlear implants can provide a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are meant for people who have moderate to severe hearing impairment and continue to have trouble comprehending speech in spite of using hearing aids. So, who can benefit from a cochlear implant, and how do you know if you or a loved one is a good candidate? Let’s examine it more carefully!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Cochlear implants work by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, avoiding the damaged sections of the inner ear, unlike hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.

Components of cochlear implants:

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

They work in unison to enhance hearing for people who receive minimal or no assistance from conventional hearing aids

Basic candidacy guidelines

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

• Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
• Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
• Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations regarding the results of implants
• Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  rehabilitation

Cochlear implants for kids

Timely placement of implants is essential for kids, especially regarding the advancement of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific

conditions:

• Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
• Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive minimal help from hearing aids
• Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from prompt support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic accomplishment, and social progress. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
  loss.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:

  • Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
  • Experience trouble understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
  • Have a strong desire to communicate and remain 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 suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.

  The assessment process

  Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a comprehensive examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Typically, this assessment involves:

  • A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
  • Speech recognition testing
  • A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
  • Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to examine the structure of the inner ear
  • Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs

  The team will team up to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if needed, walk you through the next stages.

  Bringing back sound to improve life connections

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails going through a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.

  If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient assistance, it could be helpful to consider cochlear implants.

  Contact 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/.