Overview

A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that electrically stimulates the cochlear nerve (nerve for hearing). The implant has external and internal parts. The external part sits behind the ear. It picks up sounds with a microphone. It then processes the sound and transmits it to the internal part of the implant. The internal part is placed under the skin behind the ear during an outpatient surgery.

A thin wire and small electrodes lead to the cochlea, which is part of the inner ear. The wire sends signals to the cochlear nerve, which sends sound information to the brain to produce a hearing sensation. Although normal hearing is not restored, with appropriate therapy and practice, the improved hearing experience can mean an increased awareness of sounds in the environment, as well as better communication through easier lip reading and listening.

Procedure

The surgery lasts two to four hours. You are given medication (general anesthesia) to make you sleep during the procedure. The surgeon makes a cut behind the ear and then opens the mastoid bone. The surgeon identifies the facial nerves and creates an opening between them to access the cochlea, which is then opened. He or she inserts the implant electrodes into the cochlea. The surgeon places an electronic device called the receiver under the skin behind the ear, securing it to the skull in this area.

The incisions are then closed, and you will be moved into the recovery area and watched closely. You will be discharged after at least two hours of observation.

Results of cochlear implant surgery vary from person to person. Factors that can affect the outcomes of cochlear implantation include the age when hearing was lost, and the length of time between hearing loss and the cochlear implant surgery.

For children, the best results generally occur with getting a cochlear implant at a young age. For adults, the best results are generally associated with a shorter period of profound hearing loss before cochlear implantation. Adults with little or no experience with sound tend to benefit less from cochlear implants.

Results

Clearer hearing. Many people who meet the hearing criteria for cochlear implantation may eventually get clearer hearing with using the device.

Improved tinnitus. Although ear noise (tinnitus) isn't a primary reason to receive a cochlear implant, the cochlear implant may partially suppress or improve the severity of

tinnitus during use. It can rarely worsen tinnitus severity.