What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants are devices that are surgically implanted to bypass damaged hair cells in the ear and deliver electrical stimulation directly to the auditory nerve, allowing people who are severely deaf or profoundly hard-of-hearing to hear. It’s most useful for people who can’t be helped with a standard hearing aid.
Cochlear implants differ from hearing aids because they do more than amplify sounds. Instead, they generate an electrical signal that the brain can interpret as sound. This signal is created by a device that sits behind the ear, which consists of a microphone, speech processor, and transmitter. These work together with the internal components of the implant. Cochlear implants can help people with severe hearing loss or deafness to hear sounds and understand speech better.
Am I a fit for Cochlear Implants?
To qualify for a cochlear implant, certain standards must be met. These include:
- Experiencing a level of hearing loss that significantly hinders communication,
- Ineffectiveness of hearing aids in improving hearing loss,
- Absence of other health issues that could heighten the risks associated with cochlear
implant procedures, - Realistic understanding of the potential hearing improvements offered by cochlear implants,
- Knowledge of the risks and benefits associated with cochlear implant surgery,
- Commitment to undergo rehabilitation to effectively utilize the cochlear implant.
Individuals with unusual ear anatomy may not be suitable candidates for cochlear implants. An evaluation involving a CT scan or MRI may be required to determine eligibility for the implant surgery.
Robotic-Assisted Cochlear Implantation
Jed Grisel, MD, is an official provider of the iotaSOFT Insertion System at Texoma ENT & Allergy. This robotic-assisted innovative technology is designed for the electrode array insertion during a cochlear implant surgery. The use of robotic assistance helps ensure the delicate structures within the cochlea are protected during the procedure to maximize the outcomes.
Texoma ENT & Allergy is proud to be a leader in cochlear implant surgeries and to partner with iotaMotion to bring the Wichita Falls community to the forefront of hearing care. Learn more about this innovative procedure by contacting our office today for an evaluation.
