Cochlear Implants

Evaluation

Patients undergo many tests during several outpatient visits. These tests include but are not limited to:

• Hearing test
• Hearing aid evaluation
• Speech understanding with appropriate hearing aids
• Balance assessment
• MRI scan
• Medical evaluation
• Insurance consultation
• Audiologic consultation
• Psychology consultation
• Speech pathology consultation

Eligibility Criteria

In addition, candidates for cochlear implantation are assessed to determine their eligibility for surgery. Listed below are the general criteria for adults:

• Severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears
• Limited benefit from hearing aid as determined by specialized audiological testing
• No medical or radiological conditions or factors that increase the risks associated with cochlear implants
• High motivation to participate in rehabilitation sessions and to be part of the hearing world
• Clear understanding of what cochlear implants can and cannot do for hearing