A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted electronic device that helps provide sound to a person with severe sensorineural hearing loss. This is hearing loss caused by damage or a defect in the inner ear. Cochlear implants bypass damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve to send information to the brain.
Cochlear implants have three parts:
Parts of the Body Involved
Ear
Reasons for Procedure
Cochlear implants provide a heightened sense of sound for adults and children with profound hearing loss. They are designed for people whose hearing does not improve with surgical correction or the use of a hearing aid. Cochlear implants will not restore or create normal hearing.
Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure
None
What to Expect
Prior to ProcedureYour doctor will likely do some or all of the following:
- Ear (otologic) evaluation
Outcome
A cochlear implant should improve the ability to sense sound. Most people with cochlear implants can hear medium to loud sounds and recognize speech at normal decibel levels. Results will vary, depending on the age of initial deafness, degree of hearing impairment, condition of the nerve fibers, and general health.
Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs
- Pain
- Dizziness or vomiting
- Facial paralysis
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge at the incision site
- Cough, shortness or breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting