Cochlear Implants

Internal Electrode Implant, Outer Sound Processor, and Remote Control Unit (click to enlarge)

Internal Electrode Implant, Outer Sound Processor, and Remote Control Unit (click to enlarge)

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that provides partial hearing to patients with severe to profound, bilateral hearing loss. The implant is surgically implanted in the inner ear and activated by a device worn outside the ear.

Unlike hearing aids that cannot make sound louder or clearer for far advanced hearing loss patients, cochlear implants bypass damaged parts of the inner ear and send electrical ‘sound’ signals directly to the hearing nerve. These sound signals allow individuals who are severe to profoundly hearing impaired receive sound.

Video of Cochlear Implant Insertion (Animation)

Candidacy

cochlear_implant_candidacy
Read more at Ohio Ear Institute.