Parents who find out their child needs a cochlear implant may feel overwhelmed and even scared, not knowing what the process entails or whether it will be successful.

Here are 10 things parents should know about cochlear implants before considering them for their child.

1. What is a Cochlear Implant?

A cochlear implant is an electronic device implanted surgically into the inner ear to provide deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals with the sensation of sound.

An external processor captures and processes sounds, which are then transmitted to the implant and decoded into electrical signals that stimulate the auditory nerve.

2. How Does a Cochlear Implant Work?

A cochlear implant consists of two parts: an external processor containing a microphone, speech processor, and battery; and an internal component with electrodes surgically placed near the auditory nerve.

When the external processor captures sounds, it sends them to the internal implant, which stimulates the auditory nerve with electrical signals that the brain interprets as sound.

3. Who is a Candidate for a Cochlear Implant?

Cochlear implants are recommended for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who gain little or no benefit from hearing aids.

Candidates for cochlear implants must also have a “window of implantation,” which means the auditory nerve pathways are still intact, making it possible for the brain to interpret electrical signals as sound.

4. What is the Age Requirement for a Cochlear Implant?

Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for use in children as young as 12 months old. However, the child’s audiologist and surgeon will evaluate their candidacy on a case-by-case basis.

5. How Successful Are Cochlear Implants?

Cochlear implants have a high success rate in both children and adults. Most recipients report hearing substantial improvements in their ability to communicate, understand speech, and even enjoy music.

Research shows that early implantation is essential to achieving the best possible outcomes.

6. What is the Surgery Like?

Cochlear implant surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours. Recovery time is generally short, with many patients able to return home the same day.

With appropriate care and follow-up, complications such as infection, pain, or damage to the implant are rare.

7. What is Involved in Rehabilitation?

After surgery, the patient goes through an intense period of auditory rehabilitation to help the brain learn to interpret sounds again.

This process can involve listening exercises, speech therapy, and communication strategies to help develop the skills necessary to communicate in different environments.

8. What is the Cost of Cochlear Implants?

Cochlear implants can be expensive, typically costing between $50,000 and $100,000 per implant.

However, most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover the cost of implants, and various non-profit organizations offer financial assistance for those who need it.

9. How Long Does a Cochlear Implant Last?

Most cochlear implants last up to 20 years, with some lasting even longer with proper care and maintenance. However, the external processor may need to be replaced more frequently as technology advances.

Regular follow-up with an audiologist is essential to ensure the implant’s proper functioning.

10. What Are the Risks Involved?

As with any surgical procedure that involves general anesthesia, there are inherent risks associated with cochlear implant surgery. Additionally, some individuals may experience discomfort, infection, or bleeding at the surgical site.

However, complications are rare, and the benefits of cochlear implants far outweigh the risks.