Who’s a Good Candidate for a Cochlear Implant?

Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are not enough. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to understand speech, even with hearing aids. Who can potentially benefit from a cochlear implant, and what criteria determine whether somebody is a suitable recipient for this technology? Let’s examine it more carefully!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Cochlear implants function by exciting the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged parts of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that simply amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.

Components of cochlear implants:

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

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

General candidacy guidelines

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

• Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
• Hearing aids are giving modest help, especially in increasing speech comprehension
• Motivation and reasonable expectations about the results of implantation
• Dedication to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for kids

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

• Children as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
• Ages 2 and up, with extreme to profound hearing loss, who receive limited benefit from hearing aids
• Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from timely support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational accomplishment, and social growth. 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
  • Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing aids
  • Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
  • Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

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

  Getting assessed for cochlear implants

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

  • A comprehensive hearing test using and not using hearing aids
  • Testing for speech recognition
  • A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been carried out recently
  • Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to analyze the structure of the inner ear
  • Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
  • Exploring objectives, expected results, and information exchange requirements

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

  Restoring hearing, reconnecting lives

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the suitable candidate, they can significantly enhance communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this solution for yourself or your child, the initial step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.

  If your hearing aids are no longer giving sufficient assistance, it may be beneficial to think about 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/.