Cochlear Implant

What is Cochlear Implant?

Cochlear implant is an electronic device for patients with severe to profound hearing loss. The device consists of an internal implant and an external speech processor. The internal implant (receiver/stimulator) is placed in the cochlea during surgery. The external speech processor processes sound and converts it into electrical current, directly stimulating the auditory nerve and sending signals to the brain, enabling users to perceive sound.

Who is Suitable for Surgery?

Severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss, ideally aged 12 months or older
Limited benefit from properly fitted hearing aids
Some patients with profound single-sided deafness

Procedures：

The operation is carried out under general anaesthesia
The surgeon makes a small incision (around 3-4 cm) to access the mastoid bone behind the ear
The stimulator and electrode are implanted.The wound is closed with stitches and covered with a sterile dressing and bandage
The transmitter headpiece and speech processor are connected after one week, once the wound has healed
At the end of the operation, the surgeon tests the implant's function

Post-operative Rehabilitation Plan：

In the weeks after surgery, patients must return for switch-on and mapping sessions to adjust the external processor to their hearing needs
Audiologists will conduct hearing tests to aid adaptation to the speech processor
Patients may also be recommended for speech habilitation and rehabilitation training if necessary