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 little, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to profound 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 take a closer look!

Cochlear implants – what are they?

Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear. 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, inserted beneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure

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

Basic candidacy guidelines

Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Characteristics of Ideal Candidates:

• Significant hearing impairment in both ears
• Hearing aids are giving mediocere assistance, especially in improving speech comprehension
• Enthusiasm and reasonable anticipations concerning the results of implants
• Dedication to continuing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy

Cochlear implants for kids

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

conditions:

• Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
• Ages 2 and up, with extreme 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 achievement, and social progress. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
  loss.

  Cochlear Implants for Adults

  Adults of any age can take advantage of cochlear implants if they:

  • Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
  • Experience difficulty understanding speech, even with powerful hearing aids
  • Possess a deep desire to express yourself and stay linked to others
  • Are willing to engage in ongoing hearing therapy and device programming

  Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it abruptly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.

  Getting evaluated for cochlear implants

  Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a thorough assessment with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:

  • A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
  • Testing for speech recognition
  • Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
  • Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to examine the structure of the inner ear
  • Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
  • Conversation about goals, expectations, and communication rerquirments

  The team will collaborate to assess whether a cochlear implant is the best solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.

  Restoring sound, reconnecting lives

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

  If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient assistance, it could be helpful to think about 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/.