Cochlear Implants
For selected patients with severe hearing loss, cochlear implantation may be an option. A cochlear implant is a device that is surgically implanted into the inner ear. An external microphone (much like a standard hearing aid) is worn by the patient and this transmits a signal to the implant to stimulate the hearing nerve directly. With over 300,000 cochlear implant procedures having been completed in the US, both children and adults have significantly benefited from this technology.
At UMass Memorial Medical Center, we offer all three cochlear implant device manufactures currently on the market:
- Advanced Bionics: http://www.advancedbionics.com/
Cochlear Corporation: https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/home- Med-El: http://www.medel.com/us/
Our specialized team consists of an otologist (ear surgeon) and cochlear implant audiologists. They will work with you to review your treatment options, discuss the differences in implant types and help you make a decision about what device is right for you. After implantation, the team will ensure you have all the support you need to obtain the best hearing outcome possible.
Additional Information on Cochlear Implants: