sisekõrvaimplantaati

A sisekõrvaimplantaat, also known as a cochlear implant, is an electronic medical device that replaces the function of a damaged part of the inner ear (cochlea). Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass damaged portions of the ear to stimulate the auditory nerve directly. This stimulation then sends signals to the brain, which interprets them as sound.

The device consists of two main parts: an external component and an internal component. The external component includes a microphone, a speech processor, and a transmitter. The microphone picks up sounds and sends them to the speech processor, which converts the sounds into electrical signals. The transmitter sends these signals across the skin to the internal component. The internal component, surgically implanted beneath the skin, includes a receiver and a stimulator. The receiver picks up the signals from the transmitter and sends them to the stimulator. The stimulator then delivers electrical impulses to an electrode array implanted in the cochlea.

Cochlear implants are typically recommended for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who do not benefit significantly from hearing aids. This can include both children and adults. The decision to pursue a cochlear implant is usually made in consultation with an audiologist and a surgeon, often after a comprehensive evaluation of hearing and speech capabilities. While they do not restore normal hearing, cochlear implants can provide a representation of sound that allows for improved speech understanding and a greater awareness of environmental sounds. Rehabilitation and therapy are crucial components of successful cochlear implant use.