Who’s a Good Candidate for a Cochlear Implant?

When hearing aids aren’t sufficient, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble understanding speech despite using hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria establish whether someone is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s have 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 areas of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and comprehend auditory information with better clarity.

Cochlear implants consist of:

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

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

Basic candidacy standards

Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Attributes of Ideal Candidates:

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

Cochlear implants for kids

Early implantation is important for kids, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. Cochlear Implants approved by the FDA for these specific

conditions:

• Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
• Children aged 2 and older with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
• Children who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from prompt support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, academic accomplishment, and social progress. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:

  • Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
  • Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with high quality hearing aids
  • Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain connected to others
  • Are willing to participate in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming

  Hearing loss can happen slowly or quickly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either instance.

  Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

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

  • A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
  • Speech recognition testing
  • A hearing aid trial run, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
  • Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
  • Consultation with an ENT professional or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Examining objectives, anticipated results, and information exchange requirements

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

  Bringing back sound to improve life connections

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

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

  Reach out to 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/.