Program
Overview
Who
is a Candidate for a Cochlear Implant ?
The
University of Michigan Cochlear Implant Program was established
in 1984 with the implantation of a single channel device in an adult.
The first multi-channel device was implanted in an adult in 1986.
The first child was implanted in 1987. Over 1,400 children and adults
have received cochlear implants at the University of Michigan. Our
center focuses on providing state of the art patient care and advanced
research. We currently provide several types of cochlear implants
including the Cochlear Corporation Nucleus device, the Advanced
Bionics Clarion device, and the Med-El devise.
Who
is a Candidate for a Cochlear Implant ?
General Candidacy Criteria for ChildrenGeneral Candidacy Criteria for Adults
- 12 months to 18 years of age
- severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears
- little or no benefit from hearing aids following an adequate period of training
- no medical or radiological contraindications
- evidence of a functioning auditory nerve
- able to provide a conditioned response to auditory/vibrotactile stimuli
- high motivation and appropriate expectations by child and parents
- assurance of family stability and support
- an educational/rehabilitation program that emphasizes auditory skill development
- 18 years of age or older
- moderate-severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears
- little or no benefit from hearing aids following an adequate period of training
- no medical or radiological contraindications
- evidence of a functioning auditory nerve
- high motivation and appropriate expectation
