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What is a Cochlear Implant?
A Cochlear Implant is a medical device designed to restore hearing for people with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss, who do not benefit adequately from traditional hearing aids. Unlike hearing aids—which simply amplify sounds—a cochlear implant bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to interpret sound signals.
How Does a Cochlear Implant Work?
A cochlear implant has two main parts:
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External Component:
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Microphone – Picks up sound from the environment.
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Speech Processor – Converts sound into digital signals.
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Transmitter Coil – Sends the processed signal to the internal implant via radio waves.
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Internal Component (Implanted Surgically):
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Receiver-Stimulator – Receives signals from the external processor.
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Electrode Array – Sends electrical impulses directly to the auditory nerve in the cochlea.
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This system helps the user perceive sound sensations that are interpreted by the brain as hearing.
Who Can Benefit from a Cochlear Implant?
Cochlear implants are suitable for:
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Children born with profound hearing loss.
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Adults who have lost hearing later in life.
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Individuals who get limited benefit from power hearing aids.
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People with bilateral (both ear) severe hearing loss.
Early implantation—especially in children—can significantly improve speech development, language learning, and academic performance.
The Cochlear Implant Procedure
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Evaluation:
The process starts with a detailed audiological, medical, and psychological assessment to determine eligibility. -
Surgery:
A minor surgical procedure is performed under general anesthesia, usually lasting 2–3 hours. -
Activation:
After a few weeks of healing, the external processor is fitted and activated. -
Rehabilitation:
Post-surgery, patients undergo auditory training and speech therapy to help the brain adapt to new sounds.
Benefits of Cochlear Implants
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Improved speech understanding and sound clarity.
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Ability to recognize environmental sounds (doorbells, alarms, traffic).
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Better communication and social interaction.
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Enhanced academic and professional opportunities.
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Positive emotional and psychological impact on quality of life.
Limitations and Considerations
While cochlear implants can significantly improve hearing, they:
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Require surgery and follow-up therapy.
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May not restore hearing perfectly.
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Involve maintenance and occasional equipment upgrades.
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Are not suitable for everyone—each case needs proper evaluation by an audiologist and ENT specialist.
Cochlear Implants at VR Speech and Hearing Clinic
At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, we provide comprehensive cochlear implant services, including:
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Hearing evaluations and candidacy assessments.
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Collaboration with ENT surgeons for implantation.
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Post-implant programming and auditory rehabilitation.
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Speech therapy for children and adults.
Our team of qualified audiologists and speech-language pathologists ensures personalized care for every patient to achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.
Conclusion
Cochlear implants have transformed lives by bringing the world of sound to those who had lost it. With modern technology and expert care, individuals with profound hearing loss can enjoy improved hearing, communication, and confidence.
For more information or to book a consultation, contact:
📍 VR Speech and Hearing Clinic
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Pune Branch: Shivganga Arcade, Shop 8, Bhumkar Chowk, Wakad, Pune
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Ahmednagar Branch: Shop No. 3, Vitthal Apartment, Pipeline Road Chowk, Bhistabag
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Aurangabad Branch: Second Floor, Vasantrao Naik Chowk, N-3, Cidco, Opp. Hotel Deepali Executive
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 9112717179 | 9657588677