Cochlear Implants. A cochlear (koe-klee-er) implant is a device that provides direct electrical stimulation to the auditory (hearing) nerve in the inner ear. Children and adults with a severe to profound hearing loss who cannot be helped with hearing aids may be helped with cochlear implants. This type of hearing loss is sensorineural, which means there is damage to the tiny hair cells in the part of the inner ear called the cochlea. Because of this damage, sound cannot reach the auditory nerve.
With a cochlear implant, the damaged hair cells are bypassed, and the auditory nerve is stimulated directly. The cochlear implant does not result in “restored” or “cured” hearing. The benefits from a cochlear implant depend on many factors, such as: The age of the patient when he or she receives the implantWhether the hearing loss was present before or after the patient developed language skillsThe motivation of the patient and his or her family How does a cochlear implant work? Cochlear Americas (Manufacturer) MED-EL (Manufacturer)
Overview of Cochlear Implants. On this page: What is a cochlear implant? Ear with cochlear implant. Credit: NIH Medical Arts A cochlear implant is a small, complex electronic device that can help to provide a sense of sound to a person who is profoundly deaf or severely hard-of-hearing. The implant consists of an external portion that sits behind the ear and a second portion that is surgically placed under the skin (see figure). A microphone, which picks up sound from the environment. An implant does not restore normal hearing. Top How does a cochlear implant work? A cochlear implant is very different from a hearing aid. Who gets cochlear implants? Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adults who are deaf or severely hard-of-hearing can be fitted for cochlear implants. Adults who have lost all or most of their hearing later in life often can benefit from cochlear implants.
How does someone receive a cochlear implant? What does the future hold for cochlear implants?