Cochlear Implant Surgery

What is Cochlear Implant Surgery?

Cochlear implant is a small electronic device which has both internal and external parts. The device stimulates the cochlear nerve (responsible for hearing) to deliver the sense of sound. Cochlear implant surgery can help you in hearing better. However, it does not restore or cure your hearing loss.

Why is it done?

You are suggested to undergo Cochlear implant surgery, if:

You are currently experiencing hearing loss in both the ears
Hearing aid is not of much help
You are able to hear but with poor clarity
You do not have any other medical issues that can increase risk of surgery

What happens during the procedure?

Cochlear implant surgery will be performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision behind the ear to open the mastoid bone. The Facial nerve is identified and an opening is made to access the cochlea. Once the cochlea is opened, implant electrodes are inserted into it. The receiver (an electronic device) is placed under the skin behind the ear and incision site is closed.

How long will it take?

Cochlear implant surgery lasts for about 2-4 hours depending upon your condition. Your surgeon will explain to you in detail about the surgery.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be prescribed pain management medication and discharge will be planned based on your recovery. Your follow-up visit will be scheduled. After 4-6 weeks, the external part of the device will be added. You will learn about taking care of the external device and how to use it. You might be recommended to visit speech-language therapists and audiologists.

Apollo expertise in the procedure

The experts at Apollo Hospitals has helped many children and elders with their hearing impairment. Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad has successfully performed more than 1500 cochlear implant surgeries, which is the largest program in South Asia. The youngest to receive bilateral cochlear implant using N7 device was performed by Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi.

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FAQs

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, children can be benefitted by cochlear implant surgery. This will further help them to get exposed to sounds during the critical period when they are learning speech and language skills. You can visit our specialist and discuss.

Is cochlear implant surgery suitable for all?

Cochlear implant surgery may not be the right choice for everyone. You need to meet the cochlear implant specialist who will perform investigations and refer you to other specialists (like audiologist, speech-language therapists etc.) for their opinion. Based on all these reports, a decision will be made about your suitability for cochlear implant surgery.