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, surgically implanted devices are made for individuals with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain 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 carefully!

What is a cochlear implant?

Different from hearing aids, which merely 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 comprehend auditory information with better clarity.

Cochlear implants consist of:

• A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
• An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside of the cochlea during a surgical procedure

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

General candidacy guidelines

Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both kids and adults. Suitable candidates typically meet the following criteria:

• Substantial hearing impairment in both ears
• Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with comprehending speech
• Enthusiasm and practical anticipations regarding the results of implants
• Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
  recovery

Cochlear implants for children

Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language capabilities. 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 substantial to extreme hearing loss, who do not experience substantial 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 skills, academic accomplishment, and social progress. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are encouraged to take quick action.

  Adult cochlear implants

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

  • Have extreme hearing loss in one or both ears
  • Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
  • Have a strong ambition to communicate and stay socially connected
  • Dedicated to participating in consistent auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments

  Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either due to a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. In both situations, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.

  Getting assessed for cochlear implants

  Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:

  • A comprehensive hearing test using and not using 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
  • Meeting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant surgery
  • Examining goals, anticipated outcomes, and information exchange needs

  The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the appropriate choice and, if needed, lead you through the next stages.

  Bringing back sound to improve life connections

  Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. Whether you’re thinking about this solution for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.

  If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate assistance, it could be beneficial 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/.