Best Cochlear Implants Surgery At Lowest Cost in Janakpuri, Delhi
Hearing loss can be a significant problem for many people around the world. Cochlear implant surgery is a type of surgical procedure that can help individuals with hearing loss to hear better. It is a surgical implant that provides sound signals to the brain directly from the inner ear, bypassing the damaged parts of the ear. Cochlear implants can be a life-changing treatment option for people who have severe hearing loss or are completely deaf.
Delhi is one of the most prominent cities in India that has some of the best cochlear implant surgeons in the country. Delhi offers world-class facilities and medical infrastructure, making it a sought-after destination for people seeking cochlear implant surgery. In this blog, we will discuss the best cochlear implant surgery at the lowest cost in Delhi.
What is a Cochlear Implant?
A cochlear implant is a small and sophisticated device that utilizes electrical impulses to stimulate the cochlear nerve, which is responsible for hearing. This device comprises of two parts, one of which is fitted inside the ear while the other is placed outside or behind the ear.
The cochlear implant works by picking up sounds from the surrounding environment using a microphone. The sound waves are then processed and transmitted directly to the cochlear nerve through the implant. During the implant surgery, thin wires and tiny electrodes are placed towards the cochlear nerve to facilitate this process.
The electrical signals transmitted through the electrodes and wires stimulate the cochlear nerve, which in turn creates a hearing sensation in the brain cells.
It is important to note that cochlear implants differ from traditional hearing aids, which merely amplify sounds or make them louder without necessarily aiding speech understanding. Cochlear implants, on the other hand, help to restore normal hearing while also improving speech understanding.
With appropriate therapy and practice, individuals with cochlear implants can experience significant improvements in their hearing abilities. Even children and toddlers can benefit from cochlear implant surgery, learning to speak and listen well with increased sound awareness in their environment and the support of rehabilitation therapy.
Why do you need a Cochlear Implant Surgery?
Cochlear implant surgery may be necessary for individuals who have severe or profound hearing loss and are unable to effectively communicate using traditional hearing aids. Cochlear implants can help to restore hearing in individuals who have hearing loss due to a variety of reasons, including:
Genetic factors: Some individuals may be born with genetic mutations that cause hearing loss, which can progress over time.
Age-related hearing loss: As individuals age, they may experience a gradual decline in their hearing abilities.
Noise-induced hearing loss: Exposure to loud noises over a prolonged period of time can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear and lead to hearing loss.
Viral infections: Certain viral infections, such as meningitis or cytomegalovirus, can cause hearing loss.
Trauma: Trauma to the head or ear can damage the inner ear and cause hearing loss.
If traditional hearing aids are not effective in improving an individual’s hearing abilities, a cochlear implant may be recommended. Cochlear implant surgery can help individuals to communicate more effectively, improve their quality of life, and reduce the negative impact of hearing loss on their mental health and social interactions.
Requirements of a Cochlear Implant
To be a candidate for a cochlear implant, individuals must meet certain requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the individual’s age, medical history, and degree of hearing loss. Here are some general requirements for cochlear implant candidacy:
Severity of hearing loss: Cochlear implants are typically recommended for individuals who have severe to profound hearing loss in both ears. This means that the individual has difficulty hearing or understanding speech, even with the use of hearing aids.
Age: Cochlear implants are approved for use in individuals of all ages, including infants as young as 12 months old. However, the specific age requirements may vary depending on the country and the individual’s medical history.
Communication needs: Individuals who rely on speech communication, such as in a work or school setting, may benefit from a cochlear implant.
Medical history: Individuals must be in good general health and free of medical conditions that may interfere with surgery or the use of a cochlear implant.
Expectations: Individuals must have realistic expectations about the benefits and limitations of a cochlear implant. It is important to understand that a cochlear implant does not restore hearing to normal levels, but rather provides access to sound.
Support system: Individuals must have a support system, including family members and healthcare professionals, who can provide the necessary support and rehabilitation after cochlear implant surgery.
Financial resources: Cochlear implant surgery can be expensive, and individuals must have the financial resources to cover the cost of the surgery, the device, and any necessary follow-up care.
It is important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee that an individual will be a candidate for a cochlear implant. The decision to undergo cochlear implant surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by a team of healthcare professionals, including an audiologist, ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, and a surgeon.
How is a Cochlear Implant Surgery Performed?
Cochlear implant surgery is a complex procedure that typically involves several steps. Here’s an overview of how the surgery is performed:
Consultation and evaluation: Before the surgery, the individual will undergo a consultation and evaluation with an audiologist, ENT specialist, and surgeon. This is done to determine whether the individual is a suitable candidate for the surgery and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means that the individual will be asleep throughout the procedure.
Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision behind the ear to access the cochlea, which is the spiral-shaped organ in the inner ear responsible for hearing.
Implantation: The surgeon will implant the internal component of the cochlear implant system, which includes the electrode array, into the cochlea. The electrode array is a thin, flexible wire that contains a series of electrodes that stimulate the auditory nerve fibers.
Positioning of the receiver-stimulator: The surgeon will place the receiver-stimulator, which is the external component of the cochlear implant system, under the skin behind the ear. The receiver-stimulator is connected to the electrode array by a thin wire that is passed under the skin.
Closing the incision: Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision with stitches.
Recovery: After the surgery, the individual will be monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room or sent home. The recovery process can vary depending on the individual’s age, medical history, and the specific details of the surgery.
Activation: A few weeks after the surgery, the individual will return to the hospital to have the cochlear implant activated. This involves programming the implant to provide the appropriate level of stimulation to the auditory nerve.
Rehabilitation: The individual will undergo a period of rehabilitation, which typically involves working with a speech-language pathologist to learn how to use the implant and improve their listening and speaking abilities.
Cochlear implant surgery is a complex and delicate procedure that requires a skilled and experienced surgical team. With proper care and rehabilitation, the surgery can provide significant benefits for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss.
What are the Benefits of a Cochlear Implant?
Cochlear implants can offer a range of benefits for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, including:
Improved hearing: Cochlear implants can provide individuals with hearing loss access to sounds they may not have been able to hear before, such as speech, music, and environmental sounds.
Better speech recognition: Cochlear implants can improve speech recognition in noisy environments, making it easier for individuals to communicate with others.
Improved quality of life: Improved hearing can lead to a better quality of life, allowing individuals to participate in social activities and interact with others more easily.
Increased safety: Cochlear implants can improve an individual’s ability to hear warning sounds and alerts, making it easier to stay safe in everyday situations.
Early intervention: Cochlear implants can be a beneficial option for children born with hearing loss, allowing them to develop language and communication skills at an early age.
Long-term benefits: Cochlear implants are designed to last for many years and can provide long-term benefits for individuals with hearing loss.
It’s important to note that the benefits of cochlear implants can vary depending on the individual’s age, degree of hearing loss, and overall health. Additionally, the success of the cochlear implant depends on factors such as the individual’s motivation and participation in rehabilitation and therapy programs. However, for many individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, cochlear implants can be a life-changing option that significantly improves their ability to hear and communicate.
Are there any Risks or Complications Associated with Cochlear Implant?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with cochlear implant surgery. These can include:
Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site, which can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after surgery, which can result in swelling, pain, and other complications.
Damage to surrounding structures: During the surgery, there is a risk of damaging surrounding structures such as the facial nerve or other parts of the ear.
Device malfunction: The cochlear implant device may malfunction, which can result in decreased hearing or other complications.
Changes in taste or tinnitus: Some individuals may experience changes in taste or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) after the surgery.
Issues with implantation: The implant may not be positioned properly, which can result in decreased hearing or other complications.
Allergic reaction: Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to the implant or the materials used during the surgery.
Anesthesia complications: General anesthesia carries risks such as allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, and cardiovascular complications.
It’s important to note that the risks and complications associated with cochlear implant surgery are generally rare and can be minimized with careful evaluation, surgical technique, and post-operative care. Most individuals who undergo cochlear implant surgery experience significant benefits with few complications. Nonetheless, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and complications with your doctor before undergoing the procedure to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
If standard hearing aids cannot help improve hearing ability or the hearing impairment is severe inside the inner ear, implants can successfully help improve and restore hearing. The cochlear implants work on batteries that convert sound waves into electrical impulses. The electrical waves are transmitted to the brain through the auditory nerves. After cochlear implant surgery, intensive and systematic rehabilitation is essential for a more effective hearing.
Dr. Saloni Sinha ensures you get the precise treatment for hearing loss issues with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. If you are in Delhi, get the best ENT treatment at Dr. Salon Sinha’s ENT and Cosmetic Clinic.
