For a child, the ability to hear plays a crucial role in learning to speak, communicate, and connect with the world. Unfortunately, some children are born with congenital hearing defects (hearing loss present since birth). Early diagnosis and treatment can change their future, and one of the most effective solutions today is a cochlear implant.
Diagnosis – The First Step
- Most hospitals conduct a newborn hearing screening soon after birth.
- If a child shows signs of severe hearing loss, detailed tests such as audiometry, brainstem response tests, or otoacoustic emission tests are done.
- Early diagnosis is critical because the first few years of life are the most important for developing language and speech.
Who Can Undergo Cochlear Implant Surgery?
- Children with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who do not benefit enough from regular hearing aids.
- The ideal age is between 1–5 years, though it can also be done later. The earlier the implant, the better the chances of developing natural speech and language.
Types of Cochlear Implants
- Unilateral Implant: One ear is implanted.
- Bilateral Implants: Both ears are implanted, which provides better sound localization and understanding in noisy environments.
- The device has two parts:
- External processor (worn behind the ear)
- Internal implant (surgically placed under the skin and into the cochlea).
Benefits of Cochlear Implants
- Helps children develop speech and language.
- Allows them to attend mainstream schools and participate in social activities.
- Improves confidence, learning ability, and overall quality of life.
Hospital Stay and Recovery
- The surgery usually takes 2–3 hours.
- Children generally need to stay in the hospital for 2–3 days.
- After surgery, a healing period of a few weeks is followed by “switching on” the implant and regular therapy sessions with audiologists and speech therapists.
‘For any further questions, contact TRAVEL HEALTH SUPPORT +91 98’2065695 (WhatsApp number)
