Cochlear Implants
Cochlear Implants
A cochlear implant is a surgically implantable device that produces hearing sensations by electrically stimulating nerves inside the inner ear. These devices, which consist of an internal implant and an external speech processor, are designed to allow people to experience sounds as they occur. Each speech processor is programmed to meet individual needs; for example, they can be coded to emphasize different pitch, loudness and timing cues.
Cochlear implants are used mainly in young, profoundly deaf children who do not benefit from hearing aids. However, adults with severe-to-profound hearing loss in both ears may also be candidates. Surgery for the implant takes approximately 2-3 hours under general anesthesia, and most people experience only minimal discomfort. The patient is usually discharged from the hospital in a day or two, and can generally return to normal activities within a week.
Although cochlear implants don’t actually cure deafness, they do offer a life-enhancing option. Cochlear implants are a proven medical option designed to help people communicate more easily, interact more comfortably with others, and take advantage of educational, occupational and social opportunities.
Most cochlear implant procedures are covered by private insurance companies or government insurance programs such as Medicare & Medicaid.
Dr. Jill Beck, our fellowship trained pediatric otolaryngologist, has been performing cochlear implant surgeries in Boise for the past 10 years doing approximately 50 cases per year. Dr. Beck works with both Cochlear and Advanced Bionics devices.
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