| Lisa
Will this procedure work on people who have nerve
deafness? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Yes. It is most appropriate for individual with
sensorineural damage. |
Debra
My daughter was born deaf; she is 27 years old.
Her hearing loss was a result of rubella syndrome.
Can she be a candidate for this implant? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Generally patients who are born deaf can be implant
candidates. It is important that the patient have
acquired speech. In addition, they must want to
function in the 'hearing world'
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Sue
I woke up after a C-section to find I was 95%
deaf bilaterally and had ringing in both ears.
The cause was never really found and it may have
been an allergic reaction to the medicine. Is
there a way to test me to see if this was a reaction
and would the implant stop or intensify the ringing??
It's been 20 years now living through this and
learning sign language. and lip reading to get
by, I've tried hearing aides but they have not
helped me at all. |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
There is no way to know the impact and implant
would have on an individual's tinnitus; however,
our experience is that while a person is using
their implant, their tinnitus is usually lessened.
You may be an appropriate candidate to undergo
an implant evaluation. |
John
In 1997, Dr. Bigelow removed an acoustic neuroma
from my brain. A subsequent spinal fluid leak
required a second surgery, obliterating my eardrum.
Is there any chance that I can have my hearing
restored, or at the very least, stop the incessant
ringing? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant, in most instances, would not
work to restore hearing in an ear where an acoustic
neuroma was removed because the hearing nerve
is usually taken with removal of an acoustic neuroma.
A cochlear implant requires a hearing nerve to
be present. If you did not have hearing in the
opposite ear that ear may be a candidate for an
implant. A cochlear implant is unfortunately not
implanted for tinnitus control. Tinnitus retraining
therapy (TRT) however may be helpful. |
Helen
What is the difference between the normal hearing
aids and Cochlear Implants.
Thanks, Helen |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant bypasses the inner ear and
is intended for people who have very little inner
ear function left and have a severe to profound
hearing loss in both ears. A hearing aid amplifies
sound and relies on the hair cell in the inner
ear to function and transmit the sound to the
hearing nerve. This will benefit someone who has
a partially functioning inner ear. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
There can be hundreds of reasons as to why someone
may have hearing difficulties. A few of them include:
- Conductive hearing loss with external ear
canal, eardrum or middle ear problems
- Infections
- Hereditary or familial
- Trauma
- Excessive noise exposure
- Aging
In addition to the reasons why someone may have
difficulty hearing, there is often no explanation
as to why someone progressively or suddenly loses
their hearing. |
M. Mengini
Do heath insurance companies cover this procedure?
|
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Most insurers cover the procedure; however, coverage
varies from insurer to insurer. Additionally,
coverage can vary from person to person covered
by the same insurer. It is best to explore your
eligibility for coverage of this procedure with
your health insurer. |
Annabelle
I am looking for help for my 82-year old mother.
She lost the hearing in her left ear some 40 years
ago. We were told that the hearing loss was due
to nerve damage from a ruptured blood vessel and
that nothing could be done. The hearing in her
right ear was excellent until about 6 years ago,
when it started a precipitous decline until, now,
she cannot hear at all. We have been to a number
of ENT specialists, none of whom have held out
any hope of help for her; one suggested she try
a hearing aid but didn't think that would work
at all, which in fact turned out to be the case.
We had her fitted with a digital hearing aid that
was no use at all. I understand that given her
age, she might not be an ideal candidate, but
is there any possibility that she might be considered
for a cochlear implant? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Any individual with severe to profound sensorineural
(i.e. inner ear) hearing loss can be considered
for an implant. Additional evaluation, of course,
is necessary. I would suggest undergoing a hearing
evaluation and consultation with one of our implant
surgeons to begin the process. |
R Simon
My hearing is so bad that even asking people to
repeat themselves doesn't help me hear. I can't
hear high frequencies at all. My ear canals are
so small they can't accommodate the new hearing
aids and the old ones amplify everything. Is there
anything you can do for my hearing? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
You would require an evaluation with our audiologists
to determine what the best rehabilitation would
be for you. Counselors are available this evening
to answer your questions concerning Cochlear Implants.
Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing
impaired, please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564.
|
Valerie
I was born with profound deafness. I wear a behinf
the ear aid in one ear. How much better would
the cochlear be for me as to sounds. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
That is not possible to determine in this venue.
A cochlear implant evaluation would be required
to determine your eligibility. Counselors are
available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
James
I have twin boys who are 15 years of age who were
diagnosed with a high frequency hearing loss due
to nerve damage. Physicians feel our sons were
born with the nerve damage. Could they be potential
candidates for Cochlear Implants? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
A cochlear implant is currently indicated for
people with severe to profound hearing loss. If
their hearing loss is progressive, they may be
candidates for a cochlear implant at some point
in the future |
Dlingle
Having lost my hearing to spinal meningitis at
age 3, the nerves in my ears being damaged, would
the implants work for me? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant would potentially help to restore
some hearing. An evaluation would need to be done
to determine this. Each case is looked at individually.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Adey
Three years ago, I was in a van and the mirror
shattered, taking my hearing in one ear. I was
diagnosed with neuro sensory and auditory hearing
loss. The MD said it would never improve, but
recently I have experienced limited hearing sensation.
Is it possible my hearing is returning? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is unusual for hearing to return in an ear
that long after traumatic hearing loss, but it
is always possible. I would suggest that you get
in to have your hearing tested, which would help
to determine what is going on. Counselors are
available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Amanda
Is it normal for a 12-year-old to just start losing
their hearing over a two-year period? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is not normal for a 12 year old to begin losing
their hearing. The 12 year old should be seen
by an ear nose and throat physician and an evaluation
should be done. |
M. Mengini
Are severe tinnitis sufferers candidates for this
procedure? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant is done to restore and improve
hearing. It is not done to help with tinnitus.
In some patients who get an implant to restore
their hearing, a side benefit that can occasionally
be seen is improvement in tinnitus when the implant
is activated, but that is not expected and is
not a reason to proceed with implant surgery.
|
Richard H.
I am 74 years old and have been told by ear specialists
that I have nerve deafness and nothing can be
done to restore my hearing. I wear a hearing aid,
which does help, but I have a lot of trouble distinguishing
words and high tones. Could the Cochlear Implant
be beneficial to me? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is possible that you could benefit from an
implant, but an evaluation would need to be done.
Most people with a severe to profound hearing
loss are candidates. Even if at this time it is
found that you have too much hearing remaining
to be a candidate, you would at least know more
about the procedure and if the hearing drops further
you may potentially be a candidate in the future.
|
Joann R
Is the Cochlear Implant a procedure that can help
me. I have had a stapindectomy done in both ears
already. I thought it helped at the beginning
but I notice I am not hearing people talk to me
more and more |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
A cochlear implant can be performed on a patient
with otosclerosis. An evaluation would be required
to determine if you are a candidate. Counselors
are available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Valerie
How long a recuperation process is the implant
and will I still have to wear my hearing aid also?
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
The cochlear implant hook-up (connection) generally
occurs 3 to 4 weeks after the surgery. During
that time you may wear your hearing aid. Counselors
are available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Gary
My son is 25 years old and can't hear since birth.
He has no insurance. How much does it cost to
have this operation done? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
When an adult deafened at birth pursues an implant,
the benefit can be much more limited than if hearing
skills were able to develop. The evaluation, procedure,
and rehabilitation are very costly and likely
not manageable without insurance. |
Cindy
My dad has an extremely hard time hearing and
cannot participate in many family gatherings.
He has lost the hairs in his ears, and has been
told that he will get worse. Is he a candidate
for an implant? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant. Counselors are
available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Sherri
I had my implant done on Aug 19, 2002.
I am very happy about the results, but I wish
that I could have been the one that you used for
your show. I think that with my child and my hearing
loss, it would have been very emotional, for me
and your viewers. I was almost completely deaf
for most of my life. Now I hear very well. |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
Hello Sherri. I am happy you were able to watch
the show. I am glad you are doing well with your
implant. |
M. Mengini
Will health insurance companies cover it? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Most insurers, with a few exceptions, pay for
the procedure. It would be helpful to you to contact
your insurer and specifically question if this
is a covered procedure. |
Lidia
Hello! I am eighteen years old and have a Titanium
Implant; I have no ears due to Treacher Collins
Syndrome. Does the Cochlear Implant provide the
same type of hearing as the Titanium? Or do people
hear better with the Cochlear? Why not put on
the show about Titanium Implants it changed my
life! |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
In order to be appropriate for a cochlear implant,
it is necessary to have severe to profound inner
ear hearing loss. While I cannot address your
situation specifically, it is likely that you
have already received the appropriate implant
for your type of hearing loss. |
Valerie
I have a 15 percent hearing in the right ear (my
aid is worn in the right) and 10 percent in the
left. Would I be a good candidate? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
You must have severe to profound sensorineural
loss in both ears and receive no benefit from
amplification in order to be considered for an
implant. |
Lisa
My mother-in-law never did anything because they
told her any operation might cause her damage
to her equalibrium. She is 71 years old and pursued
this 25 years ago. She has nerve deafness. Is
this her only option, or is there a better way
of treating her problem? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Imbalance is usually a temporary (1 - 2 weeks)
complication. It is not typically a long-term
complication and should not deter the average
patient from pursuing an implant.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Mark
I wonder just who is a candidate for implant?
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Adey
I lost nearly all of my hearing in my left ear
following an automobile accident (3 years). A
small amount of low range hearing returned, but
I was told that the loss was permanent. Would
an implant help? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
In order to be considered for a cochlear implant,
you must have severe to profound sensorineural
hearing loss throughout the frequency range and
have received no benefit from hearing aids. |
Linda
My daughter is 29 years old and has been deaf
since birth. Her hearing went from a severe loss
to a profound loss. Would she be a good candidate
for the cochlear implant? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is possible she may be a candidate for a cochlear
implant, however adults who have had a profound
hearing loss since birth may realize limited benefit,
because the hearing nervous system may not develop
well if it has never been stimulated. Sound awareness
and improved lip reading ability can often be
achieved, but it would be unusual to be able to
understand speech without lip reading if someone
has never had hearing or been able to wear hearing
aids. |
Lamb
My brother-in-law has lost all of his hearing
in his right ear and will be completely deaf in
a year or two. Is he a candidate for this procedure?
Thanks in advance. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Debra
My daughter has no acquired speech. What else
can be done if the implant is not for her? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
You may wish to consider consulting a speech language
pathologist regarding your concerns. |
RUCK IS GOD
Hello I would like to direct this question to
Dr. Michael Ruckenstein. Is there an age limit
to this surgery? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
We can do implants at any age!!
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Ray
Are cochlear implants generally covered by private
medical insurance? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Most insurers, with a few exceptions, pay for
the procedure. It would be helpful to you to contact
your insurer and specifically question if this
is a covered procedure. |
Ginny
My 85 year old mother is almost totally deaf.
She had the mumps, measles, and chickenpox in
rapid succession as a young girl; it created an
infection in her mastoid. Can you help her? Her
hearing aids help only if you are facing her and
she tries to read your lips |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It sounds like she may be a candidate for a cochlear
implant. I would suggest that she get in for an
evaluation and hearing test and we could give
you a better idea. Counselors are available this
evening to answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for
the hearing impaired, please call our TDD number
at 215-662-7564. |
Richard H.
Apologies, please ignore first question. It was
answered already in messages (regarding nerve
deafness). A second question, please: Does Medicare,
with Part B coverage normally cover the Cochlear
Implantation?
Thank you. |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Medicare provides coverage for the procedure.
You may wish to contact Medicare for specifics.
|
Mark S.
I am deaf in my right ear and wear a hearing aid
in my left ear. Three years ago my ear nose and
throat doctor operated on my right ear. The intent
was to replace one of the three bones with a prostectic
"tuning" fork. The operation was unsuccessful.
Too much damage to the bones. Could an implant
work in my situation? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Patients with disorders such as those you are
describing can benefit from a cochlear implant.
An evaluation would be required. Counselors are
available this evening to answer your questions
concerning Cochlear Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN
(7366). And, for the hearing impaired, please
call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Mark
My wife is 80 years old with very poor hearing
in one ear. How would we determine if implant
would help her? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Candidacy requirements are severe to profound
hearing loss in both ears and no significant benefit
from amplification. It would be best to undergo
a hearing aid evaluation and consultation with
one of the surgeons to determine if it would be
appropriate for your wife to go further with the
process. |
Kristen
Hi Dr. Bigelow. I am a patient of yours with meniers
disease. I am almost completely deaf in my right
ear. I was wondering if the implant would work
for me I still have a lot of head noise. |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
Hello Kristen. A cochlear implant at this time
is not indicated for hearing loss in only one
ear. You need to have severe to profound hearing
loss in both ears to be a candidate at this time.
|
Denise
I am a 42 year old female that was diagnosed with
Meniers disease 14 years ago. My right ear is
still good, however, I have lost almost all hearing
in the left ear and have no word recognition at
all. It has become very almost impossible to hear
an entire conversation; I miss much of what is
going on around me, because I just don't hear.
Is this cochlear implant a possible solution?
Thank you |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Cochlear implants are currently only indicated
for patients with bilateral (both ears) hearing
loss. |
Janet
I had an infection as a child in the passage between
my nose and ear. As a result I am totally deaf
in one ear. I believe the nerve was also "eaten"
with the infection. Audio tests show no hearing
at all. Would I be considered a candidate for
an implant? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant at this time is not indicated
for hearing loss in only one ear. You need to
have severe to profound hearing loss in both ears
to be a candidate at this time. |
Sue
How much hearing does this implant restore if
it works? I see it's only implanted in one ear.
|
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Benefit varies from individual from individual.
Typically, hearing sensitivity after implantation
falls within the mild hearing loss range. The
amount of speech comprehension varies considerably.
On the average, individuals who had usable hearing
prior to deafness obtain approximately 80 % understanding
in a quiet environment after three months of use.
|
Cathy
My daughter and granddaughter were both born deaf,
would they be candidates for the cochlear implant
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Implants can be performed on patients who are
born deaf. However, there are many issues to consider
in these cases, including the patient's desire
to enter the 'hearing' world and if speech has
been acquired. These questions can be addressed
at an evaluation.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Janice
What is the cost of the procedure, and how does
one find out if they are eligible for this procedure?
|
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
It is best to identify first if you are an appropriate
candidate and then check with your insurer to
determine whether or not you have coverage.
|
|
wd
1. Are cochlear implants installed on both sides
with bilateral hearing loss?
2. If hearing is lost completely on one side
and the other is partially impaired, can an implant
be installed as an assist device? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
1. In general a cochlear implant is placed only
on one side. There have been studies to look at
cochlear implants on both sides, but it is not
standard of practice at this time. 2. It depends
on how much hearing you have remaining on your
good side. An evaluation would need to be done
to determine your candidacy for an implant. |
Traci
When you get a cochlear implant and have to wait
one month, can you wear your hearing aid in that
ear? Also if you are not happy with the implant
can you put the same hearing aid back in the ear?
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Generally, if you are wearing a hearing aid, the
implant is placed in the ear that does not use
the hearing aid. You can then wear the hearing
aid during the recovery period. The use of the
hearing aid after the implant is activated varies
with patient.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Sherri
My hearing loss was caused by a genetic disorder
called Ostiogenisis Inperfecta. Now that I have
had the implant surgery, if in the future new
technology comes along, will I need another operation
to "fix" the implant? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
I would recommend scheduling an appointment with
your physician to discuss your situation specifically.
|
June
I only have 1 of 3 bones of hearing (previous
surgery) and the 3rd one has otosclerosis. My
other ear is fine. I also have a perforated eardrum
and allergies. Is there any surgery for me to
restore hearing in that ear? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
It does not sound like a cochlear implant would
be the best solution for you. However, there are
many other options available that may help your
hearing.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Marie
I have Tinnitus. What can I do to cure it? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant is done to restore and improve
hearing. It is not done to help with tinnitus.
In some patients who get an implant to restore
their hearing a side benefit that can occasionally
be seen is improvement in tinnitus when the implant
is activated, but that is not expected and is
not a reason to proceed with implant surgery.
|
Jeanne D.
I'm 39 years old and have had hearing problems
since the age of 4.xs. Had mastoid surgery twice
and new eardrums and I still can barely hear.
Is this something for me to look into? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
It does not sound like a cochlear implant would
be the best solution for you. However, there are
many other options available that may help your
hearing. Specifically, a BAHA implant may be a
good option. Feel free to call for an evaluation
at 1-800-789-PENN (7366) |
Wendy
How long before people with unilateral hearing
loss will be able to have a cochlear implant?
Is the implant only in one ear for people who
are completely deaf? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
At this time, guidelines generally restrict us
to implantation of one ear. Bilateral cochlear
implantation is still under investigation. I cannot
provide you with a more specific response. |
Kim
I'm 34 years old and lost my hearing in my right
ear four years ago for unknown causes and I get
frequent ear infections in both ears. I've been
to so many specialists and they just keep giving
me medicine that does not work. I'm afraid of
losing my hearing all together. Would this help
my hearing loss. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
It does not sound like a cochlear implant would
be the best solution for you. However, there are
many other options available that may help your
hearing. Specifically, a BAHA implant may be a
good option. Feel free to call for an evaluation
at 1-800-789-PENN (7366) |
Karen
My husband had an operation to remove the bone
and replace it with wire in both ears about 16
years ago. It was amazing how well he could hear
but in time his hearing is going bad again. Would
the Cochlear help him? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
It sounds like he had stapedectomy operations.
An evaluation would be required to determine what
sort of hearing loss he now has and what would
be the best route to restore it. Feel free to
call for an evaluation at 1-800-789-PENN (7366)
|
Lawrence
My husbands hearing loss is from nerve damage,
would the implant help him. Also, is there an
age cut off for this procedure? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
There is no age limit, as long as the patient
is in reasonable health. Candidates for a cochlear
implant are those with severe to profound hearing
loss who gain little to no benefit from a hearing
aid. Hearing loss must be present in both ears
in order for someone to be a candidate for an
implant. An evaluation would be required to determine
if he is a candidate.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Ray
What is the quality of sound heard with cochlear
implants as compared to hearing aids? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
The sound varies considerably from person to person.
With longer periods of use and greater experience,
the sound from the implant can achieve a "normal"
quality. Perceptions of sound include a mechanical
quality, computer generated speech, cartoon characters,
and speech that sounds, "Just like I used
to remember". |
Jan
Hello, tuned in late for the show and was wondering
if individuals with otosclerosis are candidates
for cochlear implants? I had a stapedectomy at
HUP in the early eighties and have had progressive
hearing loss. I hear the speaking voice but I
cannot hear whispers. This is beginning to annoy
me since I cannot hear people who talk low now.
Please suggest a plan of action. Thank you |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant. An evaluation
would be required to determine if you are a candidate
for a cochlear implant or a standard hearing aid.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564 |
Linda
My daughter saw Dr. Bigelow for a consultation
and his staff for audological testing. None of
this was covered by insurance. If she were to
proceed with the surgery would the surgery be
covered by insurance? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Since you have already encountered insurance restrictions,
I would advise you to contact your insurer directly
and explore whether or not this is a covered procedure. |
Kathleen
My father is 85 and has had hearing problems for
years. He just recently suffered from Central
retina artery occlusion. He is blind and deaf
now but otherwise he is in very good health. If
we could explain to him what the implant was all
about, would you think that he would be a good
candidate for the procedure? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is very possible he would be a good candidate
for an implant. We have had a number of patients
who have been blind and deaf and if the hearing
can be at least partially restored it can make
a significant improvement in their ability to
function because the blind obviously cannot read
lips when they can't hear. The only way to know
if he is a candidate is to have him come in for
an evaluation. Counselors are available this evening
to answer your questions concerning Cochlear Implants.
Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing
impaired, please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564.
|
B.Carlsen
My sons is 41 years old and deaf since born. Can
this implant help him? If so, how do we get started?
|
Douglas Bigelow, MD
It is possible he may be a candidate for a cochlear
implant, however adults who have had a profound
hearing loss since birth may realize limited benefit,
because the hearing nervous system may not develop
well if it has never been stimulated. Sound awareness
and improved lip reading ability can often be
achieved, but it would be unusual to be able to
understand speech without lip reading if someone
has never had hearing or been able to wear hearing
aids. Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear Implants.
Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing
impaired, please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Jerry
We have a 29 year old son who has had nerve deafness
since he was 4 or 5 years old. Is there the possibility
that the implant can restore his hearing? Thank
you for your time. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
He is potentially a candidate for a cochlear implant.
There are a number of issues to address, which
can be done at an evaluation.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Mary L.
My mother is 80 years old with severe tinnitus.
She had an acoustic neuroma removed over 10 years
ago, and her acoustic nerve was severed in that
ear. Her other ear has less than 35% hearing but
she also suffers from severe headaches when background
noise is sharp. She is covered by Medicare. Is
she eligible for this procedure, and what can
I do to facilitate a meeting for her at Penn to
be evaluated? Thank you. |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
After an acoustic neuroma is removed usually the
hearing nerve is gone and so a cochlear implant
would not work in that ear. It is possible she
may be a candidate for a cochlear implant in the
ear that she still has some hearing, but an evaluation
would need to be done. All the natural hearing
in the ear that we implant is lost, but in the
right candidate the cochlear implant usually provides
better hearing. It is something that we look at
very carefully prior to recommending an implant.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Chris
What happened to Bev in this edition of Penn V.S.
that resulted in her hearing loss? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Please understand that we cannot disclose specific
information about patients featured in the broadcast. |
Bob
I have had a hearing loss since birth, I am 61
years old. I wear two Siemens hearing aids. It
is a high frequency hearing loss. Can an implant
help me? Loss curve looks like this in both ears.
(Normal below 500 Hz), (-30 DB 750 Hz), (-55 DB
1000 Hz), (-70 DB 3000 Hz), (-90 DB 4000 Hz),
(-70 DB 8000 Hz). This loss has been constant
all my life even as I get older. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant. |
Chris
What happened to Bev in this edition of "Penn
V.S." that resulted in loss of hearing? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Please understand that we cannot disclose specific
information about patients featured in the broadcast. |
James
Follow up to previous question. My sons hearing
loss is considered moderate to severe, but not
progressive. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant. Thus, it does
not appear his hearing loss meets the current
criteria for implantation. |
Priscilla
My mother is 86 years old. She has about 95% hearing
loss in her left ear and about 75% in her right
ear. About 40 years ago she suffered a type of
stroke in her left ear. It took me about 10 years
to convince her to get a hearing aid, which she
has worn since that time.
She is a patient of Dr. Richard Kressloff of Westmont.
She saw your information on the implant and became
very excited.
Do you think she could possibly be a candidate?
She also has diabetes and macular degenerative
disease.
Also, I have about a 95% hearing loss in my left
ear. My circumstances are different in that I
awoke one day and the hearing was gone. I now
wear an aid in my right ear. I am 61 and other
than the hearing loss in good health.
Thank You,
Priscilla |
Michelle L. Montes,
AuD
I would recommend scheduling an appointment
to undergo hearing evaluations and consultations
with the surgeons to discuss the specifics
of both of your cases. For an individual
with severe to profound hearing loss that
receives no benefit from amplification,
an implant may very well be appropriate.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Elroy
I'm 72. Was HOH from age 7 (Scarlet Fever) to
35 during which time I wore a hearing aid with
excellent voice range recognition and understanding.
I had my teeth pulled at that time and lost the
remainder of my hearing. My wife and I learned
sign language and she interpreted for me. She
passed away last year and now I'm wondering if
the cochlear would help me "survive"
on my own. I'm told I still have excellent speech.
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
You may well be a candidate for a cochlear implant,
but an evaluation would be required to make a
definite determination.
Counselors are available this evening to answer
your questions concerning Cochlear Implants. Call
1-800-789-PENN (7366). And, for the hearing impaired,
please call our TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Al
I have 100% hearing loss in one ear and 20% hearing
loss in the other ear. Would it cause a scrambled
signal to the brain? Thanks Al. |
Douglas Bigelow,
MD
It is possible that you may have too much
hearing in your good ear to be a candidate,
but we do have a number of patients who
have an implant on one side and wear a hearing
aid on the other side and they do very well
with that. The brain can handle that situation
well. It is also possible that you could
benefit from an implant, but an evaluation
would need to be done. Most people with
a severe to profound hearing loss are candidates.
Even if at this time it is found that you
have too much hearing remaining to be a
candidate, you would at least know more
about the procedure and if the hearing drops
further you may potentially be a candidate
in the future.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Chris
Is otosclerosis the same as presbycusis? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
They are not the same. They affect different regions
of the ear. Otosclerosis typically affects the
middle ear. Presbycusis affects the inner ear.
|
June
If a person is deaf in only one ear could they
have this surgery? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those with
severe to profound hearing loss who gain little
to no benefit from a hearing aid. Hearing loss
must be present in both ears in order for someone
to be a candidate for an implant. Thus, it does
not appear his hearing loss meets the current
criteria for implantation. |
Carol
I have familial hearing loss in both ears and
have a ringing noise and also a humming sound
in my ears. Is there anything that could improve
this condition? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant is done to restore and improve
hearing. It is not done to help with tinnitus.
In some patients who get an implant to restore
their hearing a side benefit that can occasionally
be seen is improvement in tinnitus when the implant
is activated, but that is not expected and is
not a reason to proceed with implant surgery.
|
Wendy
What is the response from people who were able
to hear previously then had sudden hearing loss?
Do they hear the same as they did before or is
it a mechanical sound? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Our experience has been that individuals who had
relatively normal hearing followed by short term,
sudden onset hearing loss obtain good results.
Their progress is typically rapid and the sound
achieves a normal quality faster. |
Kathleen
My father is 85 and has had hearing problems for
years. He recently lost his sight too. He is in
good health other than this. If we could communicate
the procedure to him would he be a candidate.
I believe his hearing problems are due to nerve
damage. Tks |
Douglas Bigelow,
MD
It is very possible he would be a good candidate
for an implant. We have had a number of
patients who have been blind and deaf and
if the hearing can be at least partially
restored it can make a significant improvement
in their ability to function because the
blind obviously cannot read lips when they
can't hear. The only way to know if he is
a candidate is to have him come in for an
evaluation.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Pamela
Is this covered by most insurance? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Most insurers, with a few exceptions, pay for
the procedure. It would be helpful to you to contact
your insurer and specifically question if this
is a covered procedure. |
Mary
My husband has an Implanted Cardiac Defibrillator.
Would he be able to have a Cochlear implant or
would the magnet used interfere with it? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein,
MD
The implant should not interfere with the
defibrillator. The main issue would be whether
his cardiac health would be up to undergoing
a general anesthetic.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Edward
What other institutions besides Penn are doing
these implants? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
A variety of institutions across the country perform
this surgery. |
Moderator
We appreciate everyone's patience during this
live question and answer session. We are here
until 9:30pm and are answering questions as quickly
as possible here tonight. If you don't see your
answer posted, we will continue answering questions
and posting answers next week on pennhealth.com.
|
Maria
My son has complete hearing loss in his left ear.
I was told it was nerve damage. Will this implant
work for him? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Cochlear implants are currently only indicated
for people who have bilateral (2 ears) severe
to profound hearing loss. |
Traci
I had all my testing done about a year ago and
was still not sure what I wanted to do, but now
I think I might go through with it. Do I need
to get the testing done again? |
Douglas Bigelow,
MD
I know you asked several questions but I
will answer the most recent question to
be fair to all those that are also waiting
to have a question answered. If you have
had an evaluation one year ago some of the
testing that you had will need to be repeated,
but some of the tests are still probably
ok. I would suggest that you come in for
a re-evaluation and we could at that point
determine what else you may need to have
done. In general it takes about a month
to get on the OR schedule once it is determined
you are an appropriate candidate for an
implant.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Adey
What does a hearing evaluation for someone diagnosed
with sensory hearing lost consist of? |
Michelle L. Montes,
AuD
A hearing evaluation consists of measurements
of detection for a range of pitches under
earphones and using a bone oscillator. Additionally
there are measures of word / speech understanding
and measures of the mechanics of the middle
ear. These measurements allow us to identify
the type of loss, severity / degree of loss,
and configuration of loss. It also allows
us to obtain preliminary information as
to whether or not you are a candidate.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Steve
I have been diagnosed with tinnitus apparently
due to time in the military reserve as a mortar
gunner. The noise level of this work over eight
years appears to have done certain damage. I have
been examined by several doctors including those
at Jefferson in Philadelphia. To date everyone
says there is nothing that can be done, but I
seem to have increased levels of not hearing clearly.
What do you suggest? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant is done to restore and improve
hearing. It is not done to help with tinnitus.
In some patients who get an implant to restore
their hearing a side benefit that can occasionally
be seen is improvement in tinnitus when the implant
is activated, but that is not expected and is
not a reason to proceed with implant surgery.
|
Dick
I am profoundly deaf in my left ear and have a
60 to 90 db loss in my right ear. It has been
identified as snesorineural loss. Forty year ago
I had stapendectomies with a prothesis in each
ear. The right worked; the left did not and nerve
damage was felt to be the cause. There is a line
of hearing loss going back through my mother's
side of the family. I currently wear a hearing
aid of roughly 130-db basic amplification on my
right ear. I do ok in one on one situations, have
moderate difficulty on the phone and don't do
well at all in groups or with public address systems.
Based on this is it worthwhile looking into the
possibility of a cochlear implant.
Dick |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
Patients with otosclerosis can undergo cochlear
implantation. However, candidates for a cochlear
implant are those with severe to profound hearing
loss who gain little to no benefit from a hearing
aid. Hearing loss must be present in both ears
in order for someone to be a candidate for an
implant. |
Jerry
My son is 29 yrs old and has had nerve deafness
since he was 4 or 5 yrs old. Is he a possible
candidate for the implant? |
Dr. Ruckstein
(earlier in the chat) He is potentially
a candidate for a cochlear implant. There
are a number of issues to address, which
can be done at an evaluation.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
B.Carlsen
What is the cost of this operation? Is there a
payment plan? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
There is no payment plan. |
Edward
Maybe I should ask that question in another way.
Are there other institutions besides Penn who
do implants? |
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
There are many institutions across the United
States that perform cochlear implants. |
Linda
Another message to Dr. Bigelow regarding my 29-year-old
profoundly deaf daughter who we feel has been
hearing impaired since birth. She lip-reads beautifully,
her speech is very good and she wears a hearing
aide and uses what little residual hearing she
has to the maximum. Would these factors make her
a good candidate for this surgery? |
Douglas Bigelow,
MD
The fact that she has been using a hearing
aid, is a good lip reader and has some residual
hearing makes her a more promising candidate
than if she has never been able to use a
hearing aid. It would be worth an evaluation
so we could give you a better idea about
her potential results.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564 |
Kathleen
Approximately 13 years ago my husband (now 59)
was diagnosed with Meniere's disease and because
of the nerve deadening he now wears 2 hearing
aids. About 8 years ago he was told that because
of this deadening he was not a candidate for a
cochlear implant. What are your thoughts of an
implant at the present? Thank you. |
Michael J. Ruckenstein,
MD
Candidates for a cochlear implant are those
with severe to profound hearing loss who
gain little to no benefit from a hearing
aid. Hearing loss must be present in both
ears in order for someone to be a candidate
for an implant. There are no restrictions
due to age or the type of sensorineural
hearing loss.
Counselors are available this evening to
answer your questions concerning Cochlear
Implants. Call 1-800-789-PENN (7366). And,
for the hearing impaired, please call our
TDD number at 215-662-7564. |
Adey
Dear MD's
There seems to be a consensus that implants are
only indicated for bilateral damage. Are there
any treatments for tinnitus or the associated
headaches and dizziness for those with only one
ear damaged? Where should we look? |
Douglas Bigelow, MD
A cochlear implant is done to restore and improve
hearing. It is not done to help with tinnitus.
In some patients who get an implant to restore
their hearing a side benefit that can occasionally
be seen is improvement in tinnitus when the implant
is activated, but that is not expected and is
not a reason to proceed with implant surgery.
|
Pamela
My husband is 60 years old. Is this something
that will last for 20 years or more? |
Michelle L. Montes, AuD
Advances in technology determine how long the
implant will be beneficial. There are still individuals
who are still using implants from more than fifteen
years ago. |
June
What options are there for someone who is deaf
in only one ear when amplification does not benefit?
|
Michael J. Ruckenstein, MD
The BAHA is currently the only implant that is
available for single sided deafness. You can obtain
more information @ entific.com. If you would like
to pursue this device, feel free to call f |
