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A cochlear implant is a tiny, intricate electronic device that can improve the reception of sound in those who are deaf or suffer dramatic hearing loss. Also referred to as a bionic ear, cochlear implants are not similar to hearing aids, as the cochlear implant stimulates the auditory nerve, rather than amplifying sound.
It's also important to note that cochlear implants cannot restore hearing loss. Instead, they represent sound in a novel way so that hearing-impaired individuals can interpret sounds in their environment.
Requiring surgical implantation, a cochlear implant is a complicated device that includes:
This combination of parts allows cochlear implants to effectively stimulate the auditory nerve by circumventing the damaged areas of the ear. Ultimately, the auditory nerve sends these signals to the brain, where the signals are interpreted as sounds.
Given that cochlear implants render sound in a novel way, patients who use these devices will need to learn (or relearn) how to interpret the various signals and impulses created by cochlear implants.
Both children and adults who suffer from severe hearing loss or are profoundly deaf can benefit from use of cochlear implants. In fact, in the U.S., about 23,000 adults and nearly 16,000 children already have cochlear implants.
For adults who lose their hearing later in life, use of cochlear implants can trigger their memory for certain sounds or words. In some cases, cochlear implant's signals can help adult patients understand speech without having to lip-read or use sign language (However, use of these visual cues is often necessary for adult cochlear implant patients).
In children, cochlear implants – along with involved therapy following implantation – can facilitate the understanding of language and the development of social skills. In general, cochlear implants are typically provided to children between 2 and 6 years old.
However, in 2000, the FDA did approve one type of cochlear implant for use in children who are 1 year old.
Individual results will vary according to the:
Regardless of individual differences, in many cases, cochlear implant patients report being able to:
Unfortunately, however, cochlear implants aren't without their risks. Possible side effects associated with cochlear implant use include:
Given the severity of possible cochlear implant side effects, it's vital that these patients:
Have you or a loved one been injured after use of a Cochlear Implant? If so, contact a cochlear implant attorney who can evaluate your claim and help you recover compensation for your injury and losses.
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