FLEX AUDIOLOGY

Cochlear Implants

Southeastern Indiana’s Cochlear Implant Specialists

Millions of people of all ages and from every social class around the world endure the effects of hearing loss. For most, hearing aids are the solution to help improve hearing and produce a better quality of living.

In some cases, hearing aids simply aren’t enough to address issues with hearing clarity and adequate communication. When hearing aids are unable to overcome difficult hearing challenges, hearing implants often provide a more effective alternative solution. Individuals in Southeastern Indiana who seek help to improve hearing clarity and enjoy more natural processed sound look to Flex Audiology to find out if they qualify for electronic implants that are capable of facilitating better communication and better hearing.

Our doctors of audiology use electronic implants to elevate speech and language processing for children as young as six to twelve-years-old on up to adolescents and adults, allowing our patients to take advantage of the benefits they provide.Cochlear implant technology is not new; it’s been around for more than 50 years. However, most people are unaware of what it is and how it’s used to enhance your hearing.

Extremely professional and very thorough. Dr. Person took the needed time to explain all of the exam, options, costs, next steps, etc. Accessible and willing to work with me. Would highly recommend!

Chris R.

It was my first visit and they were awesome, couldn’t ask for a better doctor. They were very friendly and actually talked to you and didn’t try to rush you out the door.

Tammy H.

Got appointment in an reasonable amount of time. I had a tube replaced they charged a reasonable amount and did a fine job. I’ll be going back to them for more maintenance.

flybyu

What Is a Cochlear Implant and How Does It Work?

Cochlear implants, or electronic implants, are electronic devices used to help compensate for damage in your inner ear due to a variety of causes, such as age deterioration, a birth defect, or another cause. They are made up of an external processor and an internal electrode designed to work together to deliver processed sound signals directly to the auditory nerve.

The internal electrode is threaded into the cochlea using a simple surgical procedure. This component receives digitally processed sound signals produced and transmitted by the external processor and then transmits them to the auditory nerve, bypassing the auditory system. Hearing aids, by contrast, send processed sounds through the ear canal and the auditory system.

Since the FDA granted approval for the use of cochlear implants in the 1970s, technology has continued to improve the performance capabilities of the device. Today’s electronic implants are far more efficient than they were a few decades back, thanks to advancements in digital technology, which has had a significant impact on the processing and performance capabilities of hearing implants, just like they have with cell phones and other electronic devices.

Cochlear implants do not cure hearing loss, but as a replacement for hearing aids or used along with them, they often provide the much needed alternative solution to overcome individual hearing loss challenges, especially in individuals who have experienced limited success from the use of hearing aids.

Audiologist placing cochlear hearing implant

More Answers to Your Questions About Cochlear Implants

Female smiling after getting her cochlear implants at Flex Audiology in Lawrenceburg, IN

#1 - Bi-Modal Fitting Explained

In a bi-modal fitting, a patient wears a conventional hearing aid on one side and a cochlear implant on the other. This combination leverages advanced digital technologies allowing both devices to synchronize, optimizing hearing by enhancing the auditory experience and improving speech understanding in complex listening environments.

#2 - Candidacy for Cochlear Implants

The decision for a cochlear implant involves careful assessment by both an audiologist and a surgeon. Candidates are typically those who have severe hearing loss, limited benefits from hearing aids, adequate speech comprehension, and a medical profile that supports the surgical intervention.

#3 - The Cochlear Implant Surgical Procedure

Cochlear implant surgery requires a minor incision behind the ear to place the implant’s internal component beneath the skin and insert the electrode array into the cochlea. Intraoperative testing ensures the device’s correct response before the site is closed with sutures.

#4 - Risks Associated With Cochlear Implant Surgery

While cochlear implant surgery is generally safe, any procedure involving general anesthesia carries certain risks. A comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to minimize potential complications. Typically, the procedure is straightforward, with most patients returning home the same day.

#5 - Upgrading Cochlear Implant Technology

Cochlear implant systems are designed with the future in mind; the internal electrode is a long-lasting element. Technological enhancements are often applied to the external sound processor, eliminating the need for further surgery when updates or advancements are made.

#6 - Active Lifestyle With Cochlear Implants

Individuals with cochlear implants can maintain an active lifestyle. High-impact activities and water sports are accessible by simply removing the external processor, although specific activities like scuba diving or skydiving are a no-go due to pressure variations.

#7 - Activation Timeline for Cochlear Implants

Postoperative activation of cochlear implants is typically set for four to six weeks after surgery. The activation process is progressive, carefully introducing the recipient to new sounds over time to ensure a comfortable adjustment to the device.

#8 - Insurance Coverage for Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implants are medically necessary devices, and as such they are covered by Medicare and most private insurance plans, subject to FDA approval for the technology.

Understanding Cochlear Implants and Their Function

Cochlear implants are complex electronic devices that serve as a substitute for non-functioning inner ear structures. Comprising both an external processor and an internal electrode, they bypass damaged auditory pathways to directly stimulate the auditory nerve, facilitating hearing in those with significant inner ear damage. Contrary to hearing aids that amplify sound through the ear canal, cochlear implants provide an alternative form of sound perception and have been continuously improved upon since their FDA approval in the 1970s. While not a cure for hearing loss, cochlear implants offer significant hearing improvement, particularly for those who receive limited benefit from hearing aids.

Find Out About Cochlear Implants from Our Specialist

Individuals who have not experienced adequate hearing improvement from hearing aids when it comes to speech and language development often benefit from the advanced alternative solution provided by cochlear implants. Flex Audiology applies electronic implants as an advanced technology tool to instances where a patient is not experiencing adequate results from the use of hearing aids in order to help improve the quality of life.

If you or a loved one is interested in finding out more about cochlear implants near you in Lawrenceburg, IN, and Harrison, OH, or wondering if you qualify, contact us by completing and submitting the adjacent form so our specialist can contact you for assistance.

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