Since 1957 when the first cochlear implant, this hearing solution has changed the lives of thousands of people around the world. That is why it is common for many people to ask From what age can a boy or girl receive an implant?. And the answer is clear: the sooner the better. In fact, different studies point out the benefits of placing this Auditory prosthesis before two years of age. This early placement improves children’s reading comprehension. What’s more, their level is practically identical to that of children who do not have hearing problems.
Specialists agree that the sooner the hearing disorder and the implant is performed, the greater the chances that the boy or girl will have normal development. The data are illustrative: if the intervention is carried out early, it can be up to 95% effective.
A fact that plays in favor of the early placement of cochlear implants is the technological evolution of these devices, which are increasingly smaller. In this sense, it stands out Kanso, the smallest and lightest sound processor From the market. It is so small that it is not even noticeable, which is an advantage to take into account for school-age children who may be sensitive to social stigma. But that is not the only reason why Kanso is a good alternative for children with cochlear implants. According to a recent study carried out by the Ghent University Hospitalin Belgium, this sound processor from Cochlear It’s one of the best rated for pediatric implants for his performance and comfort.
PROVEN EFFICACY ALSO IN ADULTS
The advantages of a cochlear implant are notable for adults as well. In the case of adults who have lost their hearing due to injury or illness, its effectiveness is around 85%. Also in this case the benefits are greater the sooner the hearing implantsince the person has not yet lost auditory memory.
In Spain there are already more than 14 thousand people whose lives have been changed by a cochlear implant. Its placement implies a simple surgical interventionwhich consists of the implementation of a Electronic device with which acoustic signals are transformed into electrical impulses that stimulate the auditory nerve and send sound to the brain. After the operation, users not only regain hearing ability but can speak more clearly and understand language easily.
SPECIALIZED CENTERS
UMusic count with one specific area dedicated to hearing implantswhich is specified in 57 centers reference where patients are supported, offering them personalized attention and follow-up once they have undergone the surgical intervention. Furthermore, since 1988 it has been the exclusive distributor in Spain of the international firm Cochlear, world leader in cochlear implants. Interested persons can make a first appointment through the company website.
In Spain there are currently 40 implantation centers in all autonomous communities, except Cantabria, La Rioja, Ceuta and Melilla. Both the study and the surgical treatment are fully subsidized by public health, as long as they are carried out in accredited centers.
