When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These small, surgically implanted devices are designed 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!
What Is a Cochlear Implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help restore access to sound for people who get little or no benefit from traditional hearing aids.
General Candidacy Guidelines
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Limited benefit from hearing aids, particularly with understanding speech
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory rehabilitation
Cochlear Implants for Children
Early implantation is key for children, especially when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
- Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
Early intervention helps ensure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic
success, and social development. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others may lose it suddenly due to illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution in either case.
The Evaluation Process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This usually includes:
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to assess inner ear anatomy
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and communication needs
The team will work together to assess whether a cochlear implant is the right solution, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Restoring Sound, Reconnecting Lives
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, independence, and quality of life. Whether you’re considering this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized evaluation with a qualified hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to explore 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/