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

When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still struggle to understand speech, even with 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 thoroughly!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. This allows the brain to process and understand auditory information with better clarity.

Components of cochlear implants:

• 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 improve hearing for individuals who receive minimal or no assistance 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 Suitable Candidates:

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

Cochlear implants for children

Early implantation is key for children, especially when it comes to speech and language development. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific

conditions:

• Infants as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
• Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who get minimal help from hearing aids
• Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language skills, educational achievement, and social progress. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
  loss.

  Adult cochlear implants

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

  • Have severe hearing loss in one or both ears
  • Struggle to make out words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
  • Have a strong desire to communicate and remain socially connected
  • Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming

  Hearing loss can occur gradually or quickly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly 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 typically includes:

  • 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 analyze the structure of the inner ear
  • Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication needs

  The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if necessary, lead you through the subsequent stages.

  Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives

  Cochlear implants may not be suitable for everyone, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably enhance communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.

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