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COCHLEAR IMPLANT PROGRAM
Sometimes hearing aids are not enough.
 Hearing aids can only amplify sounds and send them to
the inner ear. In the case of severe or profound hearing loss this may make the
sound louder but does not improve the ability to understand due to damage
occurring in the inner ear.
A cochlear implant bypasses the damaged
parts of the inner ear by stimulating auditory nerve fibers directly. A
cochlear implant is an electronic device that is surgically implanted in the
inner ear that works in conjunction with external equipment worn behind the
ear.
 Although cochlear implants do not restore natural
hearing, most individuals with cochlear implants have achieved significant
gains in sound awareness and speech understanding.
Cochlear implants have
been approved for those with a moderate-to-profound hearing loss in both ears,
who receive limited benefit from hearing aids. If there are no medical
contraindications candidates of any age may be implanted.
The Center
for Hearing and Balance Disorders provides comprehensive cochlear implant care.
The Centers Implant Program offers: 
- Candidacy evaluations
- Surgery and follow-up care
- Cochlear implant activation and programming
- Aural rehabilitation services
Is a cochlear implant right for you?
 If you decide to investigate further, the next step
is a clinical evaluation to determine candidacy. You will also receive further
information about what happens during the implant process.
The
cochlear implant program at the Center for Hearing and Balance Disorders has
been recognized by the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard
of Hearing. In May 2006, they awarded us a grant for fellowship training in the
area of cochlear implants. This grant will enable the Center to expand our
patient care efforts, as well as research in the area of cochlear implants and
hearing loss.
Cochlear implants are covered under most insurance
policies, including Medicare. The Center's skilled team is available to assist
with determination of insurance benefits. 
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