Cochlear implants use a sound processor that fits behind the ear. The processor captures sound signals and sends them to a receiver implanted under the skin behind the ear. The receiver sends the signals to electrodes implanted in the snail-shaped inner ear (cochlea).

Are cochlear implants connected to the brain?

The implant bypasses most of our normal hearing process, electronically connecting a microphone directly to the cochlear, the structure in the inner ear that collects nerve signals from the ear and sends them to the brain.

Do cochlear implants cure deafness?

Cochlear implants do not cure hearing loss or restore hearing, but they do provide an opportunity for the severely hard of hearing or deaf to perceive the sensation of sound by bypassing the damaged inner ear. Unlike hearing aids, they require surgical implantation.

Is a cochlear implant outpatient surgery?

The cochlear implant surgery will be done as an outpatient procedure through the Same Day Surgery Center, but your child will be admitted to the hospital as an inpatient for an overnight stay. Your child will need to have general anesthesia medication to make him or her sleep throughout the surgery.

What does it sound like to hear with a cochlear implant?

Some common descriptions right after the implant is turned on include: “cartoon like” voices, “robotic” voices, beeping sounds for voices, echoic sounds, buzzing and ringing sounds to name a few.