Hear This Organization - Cochlear Implants

What is a Cochlear Implant?

A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that provides sound to those children and adults who have a severe to profound hearing loss (70db to 90db) who do not benefit from hearing aids. Cochlear implants enable sound to reach the brain effectively bypassing the part of the ear that is damaged, to directly stimulate the hearing nerve.

The FDA first approved cochlear implants for the treatment of hearing loss in adults in 1985 and in 1990 for children. Worldwide over 70,000 people use a cochlear implant to hear (as cited by NIDCD Jan. 2002).

A Cochlear Implant Has Three Parts

Receiver: The receiver is surgically implanted under the skin above the ear. A wire from the receiver to the electrode array is inserted in the cochlea. Surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis by an otolaryngologist.

Microphone: Picks up sound in the environment and transmit it to the speech processor.

Speech processor: A microcomputer which can be worn behind the ear (it's appearance is similar to a hearing aid) or a body unit which is worn on a belt or in a pocket. The speech processor interfaces between sound in the environment and the internal implant electronics to send information to the hearing nerve. This process occurs in milliseconds enabling the listener to hear sound as it occurs.

You May Be a Candidate for a Cochlear Implant if:

Adults (18 and over)

You have a severe to profound loss in both ears (70db to 90db).
Receive limited benefit from hearing aids.
Have no medical contraindications.
Possess a strong desire to hear.

Children (18 months and above)

Have a profound hearing loss in both ears (90 db).
Receive little or no benefit from hearing aids after a 3 to 6 month evaluation.
Have no medical contraindications.

Adult's who have lost their hearing later in life often benefit from a cochlear implant. Because of previous exposure to sound they retain auditory memory which enables greater speech comprehension. Many adults report a better quality of life after receiving an implant. They also report improved communication with family and friends as well as with the world at large.

Young children may benefit greatly from implants. Cochlear implants can help young children gain speech, language, developmental and social skills. The optimal age for implantation in children is between 18 months and six years.

How Can Someone Learn if They are a Candidate for an Implant?

The first step is to contact a cochlear implant center to request an evaluation. An audiologist as well as an ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) who specializes in surgery will be consulted during the evaluation process.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cochlear implant procedure costs on average about $60,000. Health insurance plans usually pay between 80% to 100% of all costs. Medicare, the Veteran's Administration and Medicaid may also cover the costs in some states. Other services that may cover the implant are State Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Children's Special Services and Tricare.

For more detailed information pertaining to cochlear implants please visit the manufacturers' web sites. The three companies licensed by the FDA to market cochlear implants are as follows:

Advanced Bionics Corp. at www.bionicear.com
Cochlear Corp. at www.cochlear.com
Med-El Corp. at www.medel.com

Disclaimer Statement:
This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect that you may have a hearing loss, you should consult your health care provider.