Cochlear Implants: After the Surgery

by Jacky G. Hearing Loss
Boy with Cochlear Implant

Image source: Letthemhear.org

A child who receives cochlear implants has the opportunity to learn to perceive sound and develop speech and language skills. However, he will not be able to use the cochlear implant immediately after surgery. It typically takes three to six weeks for the ear to heal. The ear must heal before the surgeon attaches the external transmitter. Furthermore, it is important to remember that cochlear implants are not a cure for hearing loss. Speech therapy is critical for the best possible outcome. Your child must learn how to use his cochlear implant.

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Cochlear Implants: What to Expect During Surgery

by Jacky G. Hearing Loss
Cochlear Implant Diagram

Image source: Kidshealth.org

Cochlear implants are not a cure for hearing loss, but they can provide an opportunity to perceive sound. Research has shown that if parents are going to have their children undergo cochlear implant surgery, it’s best to do it sooner rather than later. Doing so can greatly improve the child’s speech and language development so that they are on target with their peer groups. While every surgery is serious and should not be considered lightly, it may reassure you to know that cochlear implant surgery has become routine. It may even be performed on an outpatient basis.

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Study Shows Timing is Critical for Cochlear Implants

by Jacky G. News
Child with Hearing Loss

Image source: Knoxnews.com

A cochlear implant is a device that bypasses damaged hair cells in the inner ear to stimulate the auditory nerve. This allows a Deaf person to perceive sound. It is not a cure for hearing loss. While a person can receive a cochlear implant at any age, experts have long agreed that if a parent decides to have a child undergo the surgery, the sooner the better. Researchers from the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) have also found that children who undergo the surgery sooner rather than later demonstrate the most positive benefits.

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Is a Cochlear Implant Right for Your Child?

by Jacky G. Hearing Loss
Cochlear Implant Diagram

Image source: Examiner.com

Cochlear implants are devices that may help your child hear. If your child is Deaf or has profound hearing loss, consider talking to his doctor about cochlear implants. Sometimes called “bionic ears,” cochlear implants are not a cure for hearing loss. Whereas a hearing aid amplifies sound, a cochlear implant will bypass the damage in the ear to stimulate the auditory nerve directly. The brain can then interpret the signals sent by the nerve as sound. It can take quite an adjustment to learn to use a cochlear implant, but these little electronic devices can help your child develop speech and language at a rate on target for his age group.

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