Ear Implants for Hearing Loss

My Options: Ear Implants for Hearing Loss

For most people, hearing aids are a very effective way to manage hearing loss. Modern hearing aids can amplify sound in a natural and comfortable way. However, some people have more complex needs or severe hearing loss than a hearing aid can address. For these people, ear implants for hearing loss may be a solution. Implants require surgeries and can sometimes impact any residual hearing, so are not without risks. For this reason, in most cases, implants are reserved only for those who have tried hearing aids and have not, or no longer, receive adequate benefit.
There are many different types of implants that can address different hearing or medical issues. Even within the types of implants, there are different styles, colours and options. Your audiologist can guide you through which implant may be appropriate and the many options available.

Ear Implants for Hearing Loss

1. Cochlear implants

One of the most common ear implants to treat hearing loss is the Cochlear Implant. Cochlear implants are suitable for people with significant, permanent hearing loss. A cochlear implant includes two parts: an internal electrode and an external sound processor. The internal electrode is implanted into the cochlear and stimulates the hearing nerve electrically. The external sound processor detects the sound in the environment and transmits it to the internal electrode. Cochlear implants all have similar broad features and well-manufactured designs. However, there are slight differences in style, accessories and the type of battery used.

Also read: What does a cochlear implant do?

2. Auditory brainstem implants

Patients with profound sensorineural hearing loss can benefit from Auditory Brainstem Implants (ABI). The implant has two main parts: The external and the internal part. First, the external part which is worn on the ear is called the processor. Second, the internal part which is surgically implanted in the brain. They work together in such a way that the processor transmits sound signals to the internal part. It creates a perception of sound by taking a shortcut to the brainstem, bypassing the hearing nerve and the cochlea. If you have a dysfunctional hearing nerve, then you might be needing the help of ABI. ABIs are relatively rare and still fairly rudimentary, as it is very difficult to recreate the complex pattern of nerves at the brain level. Realistic outcomes of ABI are limited to perception of general sound, rather than true speech understanding.

3. Bone conduction hearing devices

Bone Conduction Hearing Devices, also known as Bone Anchored Hearing Aids, are alternatives to the regular hearing aids that we know. If you have middle and outer ear issues, this device may be suitable for you. It works by transferring sounds by means of bone vibrations. This is done directly to the cochlea which means it bypasses the outer and middle parts. Then your functioning cochlea is responsible for the sending of sound to your brain. Bone conduction hearing devices can be beneficial when a traditional hearing aid cannot be used in the outer ear (eg. For those with chronic outer ear infections) or when there is damage to the outer or middle ear structures.

4. Middle ear implants

Patients with conductive hearing loss or sensorineural hearing loss are potential candidates for Middle Ear Implants. Similar to all other ear implants for hearing loss, Middle Ear Implants function with the help of a processor and a receiver.  The implant is a tiny prosthesis, attached to either the middle ear bones or near the cochlear window membrane. The implant works by amplifying the sound vibrations that reach the middle ear and transferring these vibrations to the cochlear.

5. Electro-ac­oustic implants

Electroacoustic implants are a type of cochlear implant that uses electrical stimulation only on the very high frequency sounds, and acoustic stimulation for the lower frequency sounds. If you have profound high-frequency hearing loss with moderate low and mid frequency hearing, then this implant is for you (of course, still subject to the recommendation and diagnosis of your audiologist).  The mix of electrical and acoustic stimulation means that the natural acoustic sound in the low and mid frequencies can be preserved and amplified. On the other hand, in the high frequencies where an acoustic hearing aid can not be of help, electrical stimulation gives the perception of sound.

Related article: Hearing Aids and Hearing Tests

Do you want to learn more?

Visit our website for articles and blogs to broaden your knowledge about ear implants for hearing loss. If you think you might have serious problems with your hearing, do not waste any time. See a hearing professional and have a hearing assessment.