Understanding Cochlear Implants: A perfect guide

A cochlear implant is a tiny electronic device used to restore or improve hearing in patients who have lost the ability to hear due to chronic inner ear damage. While some people mistake cochlear implants for hearing aids, it is pertinent to note that unlike the hearing aids that simply amplify the sound entering our ears to help us hear better, cochlear implant involves the surgical placement of the device to bypass the damaged portion of the ear to regulate the normal flow of sound signals to the auditory nerve. ENT cochlear implant surgery in Delhi is offered at all the leading hospitals.

Working mechanism of a cochlear implant:

The device involves a sound processor that captures sound signals and transmits them to a receiver which is surgically placed under the skin behind the patient's ear. The receiver sends these signals to the electrodes which are placed in the inner ear, i.e. the cochlea. The signals stimulate the auditory nerve which then transmits them to the brain where it is processed. The sound you hear with a cochlear implant are quite different from those one hears normally but this surely helps to improve the quality of life. As per the doctors from the best hospital in Delhi, patients undergoing at cochlear implant surgery require some training so as to be able to interpret the signals and it may even take up to a year or more. However, with proper therapies and guidance, the patient might be able to completely process the signals even before a year.

Who requires a cochlear implant?

A cochlear implant is an alternative for patients with chronic hearing loss. This includes both adults as well as children (above 6 months old). It is recommended to people with:

·       Severe hearing loss that hinders spoken communication

·       Very minimal to absolutely no benefit from a hearing aid

·       No medical condition that might give rise to complications during or post the implant surgery

How will the implant help you?

People who undergo cochlear implant surgery are likely to experience improvement with the following:

·       Ability to communicate without the need for visual cues

·       Recognition of sounds in the surrounding environment

·       Ability to trace where the sounds are coming from

·       Ability to talk on telephones

·       Ability to hear music and television programs.

Preparing for the implant:

There are not any major guidelines that are to be followed prior to the surgery. The patient might be asked to stop taking a few medications or supplements temporally or might be required to fast for some time prior to the surgery.

A detailed medical examination is very important to evaluate and assess the extent of damage and determine a proper treatment plan that would be followed.  this includes a hearing test, speech test, physical examination, MRI and CT scan of the skull and mental health evaluation.

What happens during the surgery?

The procedure is performed under the influence of general anaesthesia. Once the patient is unconscious, a small incision is made behind the ear to place the receiver. A small opening is created in the inner ear so as to place the electrodes. Once the electrodes and the receiver are placed in the right position, the incision is closed.

What happens after the procedure?

Once the patient gains consciousness, he is likely to experience slight pressure or discomfort in the operated area. Dizziness and nausea might also be experienced for some time but this is quite normal there is nothing to worry about. Best doctors in Delhi help their patients to understand how the cochlear implant is operated thereby making it easier for them to get used to the device.