Cochlear Implant

A cochlear implant is a device that provides direct electrical stimulation to the auditory (hearing) nerve in the inner ear. Children and adults with a severe to profound hearing loss who cannot be helped with hearing aids may be helped with cochlear implants. The implant consists of an external portion that sits behind the ear and a second portion that is surgically placed under the skin.

A cochlear implant is very different from a hearing aid. Hearing aids amplify sounds so they may be detected by damaged ears. Cochlear implants bypass damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. Signals generated by the implant are sent by way of the auditory nerve to the brain, which recognizes the signals as sound. Use of a cochlear implant requires both a surgical procedure and significant therapy to learn or relearn the sense of hearing.

Symptoms & Treatment

Children and adults can be good candidates for a cochlear implant if they:

 Have severe to profound hearing loss in both ears.

 Have had limited benefit from hearing aids.

 Have no other medical problems that would make the surgery risky.

 Have lost their hearing after speech and language development

The efficacy of cochlear implant varies from person to person. Most individuals note a significant growth in their awareness of sounds within days after their cochlear implant is turned on, which is about four to six weeks after surgery. Cochlear implants improve hearing but they do not restore hearing to normal. It is also important to understand that cochlear implant is not suitable for every one.

Best Doctors and Cost

Dr Alok Kumar is one of the best and highly qualified ENT Specialist and Surgeon in Purnia, Bihar for the treatment of hearing loss in children and adults through Cochlear Implant Surgery at Umeed Hospital, Purnia in Bihar. The cost of Cochlear Implant Surgery at Umeed Hospital is Rs. 9 lacs per ear. The hospital stay is 1 day. In case of patient who cannot hear by birth, neds to undergo speech therapy for few months. If you have an individual health insurance policy then this surgery is covered after a period of 2 years from the date of inception of the policy. However if you are a beneficiary of company given policy then the surgery is covered from day one. Always go through the terms of your health insurance policy like room rent capping and co-payment to avoid any kind of financial shocks later on.