Cochlear Implants

What is a Cochlear Implant?

A cochlear implant is a small electrode device that can help to restore partial hearing. The device is surgically implanted into your inner ear and activated by another device worn outside the ear.

Cochlear implants are great alternatives to hearing aids. In fact, the two devices seem to work in a similar manner. However, a cochlear implant does not make sound clearer or louder. Rather, it stimulates the hearing nerves, making it possible for people with severe hearing loss to receive some sound.

At MN Ear & Sinus, we carry out cochlear implant surgeries on both children and adults at our clinic in Blaine.

Are You a Candidate for Cochlear Surgery?

Our primary surgeon, Dr. Yorgason, has over 10 years’ experience in cochlear implant surgeries for both children and adults.

For children, the procedure is recommended for those with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss. These are kids who benefit little from the amplification enabled by hearing aids, and those that score poorly on listening questionnaires.

For adults, cochlear implants are recommended for those with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss.

Cochlear Implant Surgery in Minnesota

The MN Ear & Sinus team carries out cochlear implant surgery got both kids and adults, to enable them to regain their lost hearing. If you have severe hearing loss, visit any of our clinics at Blaine, Shoreview, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Circle Pines/Lino Lakes for a physical examination and hearing test to determine whether you can benefit from cochlear implants.

At our well-equipped ENT clinics, we not only carry out hearing tests and physical examinations but also computerized tomography (CT) scan of the temporal bones. The CT scan helps to identify whether the hearing loss is due to the formation of new bone inside the inner ear or malformations of the inner ear.

How is Cochlear Implant Surgery Done?

At MN Ear & Sinus, we perform cochlear implant surgery as an outpatient procedure. Patients that undergo the surgery are placed under general anesthesia, after which an incision is made behind the ear. The whole procedure takes three to four hours.

The cochlea remains the same in size during development. Therefore, we provide the same internal electrode devices to both children and adults. Our team uses minimally invasive techniques to access the inner ear, while carefully monitoring the surrounding nerves. The minimally invasive techniques allow for a safe and short recovery period.

What Can You Expect After a Cochlear Implant Surgery?

MN Ear & Sinus has successfully performed hundreds of cochlear implant procedures. During the adjustment period, our audiologists will be there to help you.

Hearing improvements after a cochlear implant surgery varies from patient to patient. However, many of our patients have been able to successfully reconnect with family and friends, participate in mainstream education environments, and enjoy a high level of participation in the workplace.