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Cochlear Implant Surgery Description

A cochlear implant is a device that helps a person process sound. This is a surgical implant that provides a sense of sound to someone who is deaf or who has difficulty hearing. The cochlear implant works by receiving sound, processing the information and sending it in electric currents. The auditory nerve is activated by the electric currents, which sends a signal to the brain and stimulates hearing. The cochlear implant surgery often lasts about 2 hours.

  1. Before Scheduling a Cochlear Implant Surgery

    • Before scheduling a surgery, the physician will examine them for signs of infection or abnormality. Hearing tests will help assess the benefit and examine the anatomy of the cochlea. Some diagnostic tests, such as MRI or CT scans will help to determine the shape of the cochlea. Psychological exams are often performed to see if a patient is capable of coping with the implant.

    Day of Cochlear Implant Surgery

    • Prior to the procedure, a general anesthetic will be administered before making an incision. In preparation for the procedure, some of the hair, especially hair around the ear, will be shaved where the implant will be put in. The area is cleaned thoroughly to prevent any infection.

    Monitoring

    • The patient will have monitors and patches placed on different areas of the skin as vital signs are monitored. A mask will also be put on to administer oxygen and continue with anesthesia.

    Implantation

    • The incision will be made behind the ear. The skin and tissue is lifted up and the surgeon drills into the mastoid bone behind the ear. An area is created that will help hold the receiver and protect it from possible damage. A receiver is then placed into the area, and an electrode is placed in the cochlea and is then secured to the skull. The area of the incision is closed with stitches, which dissolve and do not need to be removed. The head is then bandaged.

    Post-Operative Cochlear Implant

    • After the surgery, the patient is kept in a recovery room and is monitored before being sent home. The patient may have some side effects, such as pain, a change in taste perception, vertigo, inflammation and bleeding.

    Consideration of Cochlear Implant

    • The patient will not be able to hear immediately after the surgery. The external devices to hear are normally given to the patient a month after surgery. This ensures that the area has been able to heal well and that swelling has diminished. When the external transmitter is provided, an audiologist will help to ensure that everything is functioning and make any necessary adjustments to the device.

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