Cochlear Implants

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that is surgically placed in the cochlea by a physician who specializes in disorders of the ear. The cochlear implant is surgically implanted and communicates with the external sound processor which is worn on the outside of the head.

What does a cochlear implant evaluation involve?

The need for a cochlear implant is determined through an extensive evaluation process that involves working with a team of professionals including:

• Surgeon
• Hearing aid and cochlear implant audiologists
• Social worker
• Nurse
• Speech-language pathologist trained in auditory-verbal therapy

Information to be obtained from these appointments includes but is not limited to: 

• Confirmation hearing loss is in cochlear implant candidacy range (through ABR and behavioral testing as appropriate)
• Documentation of the lack of benefit from appropriately fit hearing aids
• Determination that your child is healthy enough to undergo the surgery
• Immunization review

The cochlear implant audiologist will also: 

• Discuss the difference between hearing aids and a cochlear implant
• Discuss how the cochlear implant works
• Demonstrate implant device systems that are currently available
• Discuss the expected benefit that your child will receive with a cochlear implant based on the results obtained during the evaluation process

What happens after your child has received the implant? 

• The implant will be turned on for the first time about 2-4 weeks after surgery and you will learn how to use and take care of your child’s equipment
• Numerous appointments to the implant audiologist are required the first year to maximize the amount of benefit your child will receive from the cochlear implant.  After the first year, appointments will be scheduled once or twice a year depending on the age and needs of your child. 
• Weekly therapy with a speech pathologist trained in Auditory-Verbal therapy will be required.

Throughout this process, any member of the Cochlear Implant Team is available to answer questions and/or address any concerns.  

For questions about cochlear implants or to schedule an appointment, please call Clinic Coordinator Rachel Schoenrock at (757) 668-9846.