Individuals with severe hearing losses who are no longer able to benefit from hearing aids often are candidates for cochlear implantation. A cochlear implant is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged hearing nerve cells. Research has shown those whose hearing loss exceeds 80 dB often do better with a cochlear implant than with hearing aids.
Currently three companies manufacture cochlear implant products in the United States. They are Cochlear Americas, Advanced Bionics and Med El. We provide evaluations for cochlear implant candidacy and refer patients to one of two surgical centers in the state that provide these surgical services.