Who’s a Good Candidate for a Cochlear Implant?

When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain to comprehend 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 examine it more carefully!

What is a cochlear implant?

Cochlear implants work by exciting the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts 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
• During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and within the cochlea

Collectively, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from traditional hearing aids.

primary requirements for a cochlear implant

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 results from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
• Incentive and reasonable expectations about the outcomes of implantation
• Dedication to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  rehabilitation

Cochlear implants for children

Timely placement of implants is essential for children, particularly in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific

conditions:

• Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
• Children aged 2 and older with significant to severe hearing loss, who do not experience substantial improvement with traditional hearing aids
• Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational achievement, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:

  • Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
  • Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
  • Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
  • Committed to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

  Hearing loss can occur gradually or quickly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.

  Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

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

  • 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
  • Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
  • Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs

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

  Bringing back sound to enhance life connections

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

  If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to explore 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/.