Cochlear Implants

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that stimulates the cochlear nerve, providing the sense of sound. While hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss, cochlear implants may be a more effective option for people with more profound or total hearing loss. At Midwest Ear Institute, we conduct thorough testing to identify the best solution for your hearing needs.

How does a cochlear implant work?

A cochlear implant consists of two components: an external portion that is worn behind the top portion of the outside ear and another part that is surgically inserted in the ear.

External: the external portion of the cochlear implant consists of a microphone, speech processor, and transmitter. The microphone absorbs sound from the environment and the speech processor analyzes and organizes the sound. This sound then travels to the transmitter which codes the signals and sends them to the implanted portion of the device.
Internal: the receiver, which is surgically placed behind the ear on the temporal bone, receives the signals from the transmitter and converts them into electrical pulses. It then sends these pulses to the electrode array (a group of electrodes) placed inside the cochlear which collects the impulses and sends them to the auditory nerve.

Surgery is performed under general anesthesia to implant the internal component of the cochlear device which takes between 2 to 4 hours. Anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery (after the surgical site has healed), the external portion of the device will be fitted during a follow-up appointment. During this fitting appointment, the device will be turned on and programmed to meet the specific needs of the wearer.

Though cochlear implants and hearing aids are both types of electronic devices used to treat hearing loss, there are key differences that are important to know about.

Hearing Aids: these devices are specifically designed to absorb and amplify sound. This is intended for people who have a reduced hearing capacity and need support hearing speech and sound. Today’s hearing aids come with a range of technologies and features that enhance sound quality by reducing background noise, feedback, and directly streaming audio from other devices. This is all in service to amplifying and enhancing the clarity of sound.
Cochlear Implants:this device is intended for people with very little or no capacity to hear and process sound. Rather than picking up and amplifying sound, cochlear implants provide the sense of sound by stimulating the auditory nerve. The device does this by bypassing the damaged portions of the ear and sending signals directly to the auditory nerve. These signals, provided by the device, are then sent to the brain from the auditory nerve which allows sound to be received and processed.

For people who have severe to profound hearing loss and receive little benefit from hearing aids, cochlear implants may be a better solution. To determine the most effective option, we conduct in-depth audiological and medical assessments.

Cochlear implants offer life-changing benefits that can transform communication, safety, relationships, and social life. The impact and benefits of cochlear implants can vary from person to person and depends on several factors including the degree of hearing loss, duration of impaired hearing, and necessity of rehabilitative services post-surgery. Major benefits include:

Greater recognition of daily sounds
Increased detection and understanding of sound
Ability to hear without needing visual cues
Awareness of one’s voice
Ability to hear where sounds are coming from

These benefits can significantly improve communication by creating a greater capacity to hear and process sound. This allows people to participate in conversations, activities, and spend quality time with others with greater ease.

Cochlear Implants at the Midwest Ear Institute

Dr. Ostrowski, our leading surgeon, specializes in cochlear implant surgeries. A trained otolaryngologist, his extensive knowledge and experience inform the expert care and attention he provides to patients. After the implantation surgery, your audiology follow-up is about four weeks later. During this appointment, the cochlear device will be activated and programmed effectively to your hearing needs. While the sound quality can be challenging in the beginning, after some practice and programming sessions, you will become increasingly comfortable and adjusted to hearing with your implant.

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Cochlear Implants

How does a cochlear implant work?

Cochlear Implants at the Midwest Ear Institute

NE Indianapolis

NW Indianapolis

Mooresville