Cochlear Implant Information

Cochlear implants can be considered a boon for people with hearing disabilities. A cochlear implant is an electronic device which is placed under the skin behind the ear. It works by directly stimulating the auditory nerve, the cranial nerve which is responsible for processing the auditory and sound signals and transmitting the same to the brain. Cochlear implants, though relatively expensive, are increasingly becoming one of the most sought after treatment modalities for a growing number of patients with hearing disabilities.

However, there are certain limitations and safety concerns that should be taken into account before one decides whether to go for the surgical placement of cochlear implants or not. After all contraindications have been ruled out, and the doctors agree that a patient can indeed benefit from a cochlear implant, there are still some concerns that patients have, which have been addressed here too.

To start with, there are the obvious risks that come with any surgical procedure. Although the surgical placement of a cochlear placement is generally an outpatient procedure, it is done under a general anesthetic, and carries with it all the risks and potential problems that come with any surgical procedure. If one has any blood diseases or diabetes or other relatively contraindicative conditions, one should make it very clear to the doctor and fill in the history very truthfully.

Cochlear implant placement may carry with it an increased risk of developing meningitis. Therefore, a meningitis vaccination should be taken before the operation. This does not mean that cochlear implant recipients will ultimately be afflicted with meningitis, but that there is an increased risk of developing meningitis if the opportunity presents itself.

The skin that covers the cochlear implants may undergo a process called necrosis, or death. If the skin flap covering the implant dies, it starts shrinking and the implant may get exposed. This can be avoided by getting the procedure done from a reputed institute, with skilled surgeons and definite sterilization methods according to The Treasure of Health.

One disadvantage of cochlear implants is that these implants do not work well for patients who have damaged nerve fibers in the auditory nerve. Since the cochlear implant works by stimulating the auditory nerve, any damage to the nerve renders the cochlear implant basically useless. There is also the risk of trauma to the auditory nerve during the surgical procedure itself. This again, can be avoided if the surgeon is careful, skilled and of unquestionable reputation. The risk is always there, of course, regardless of how careful the medical staff may be.

A very rare incident is the traumatic exposure of the facial nerve. The facial nerve is another cranial nerve, the seventh cranial nerve, and is in some cases, in close proximity with the auditory nerve, this can cause paralysis of the facial muscles of expression.

All in all, most of these risks and disadvantages can be overcome by the process of careful selection. Careful selection of cases as well as careful selection of surgeons can lead to a trauma free, successful implantation.