Center for Cochlear Implants

We are a multidisciplinary service providing comprehensive care for patients with disorders of the inner ear that are interested in obtaining cochlear implantation.

Our staff is a team of otologists and audiologists specially trained in assessing candidacy and predicting success for those potential candidates who can most effectively benefit from cochlear implantation.

What Is a Cochlear Implant?

A cochlear implant provides a new mechanism for hearing when a hearing aid, which simply amplifies sound, is not enough.   With most hearing loss, the hairs of the inner ear are missing or damaged.  The Cochlear Implant bypasses damaged hair cells of the inner ear and sends signals to the auditory nerve.

The cochlear implant consists of both internal and external components.

External Components:

• Speech processor – either worn behind the ear or on the body
• Battery
• Microphone
• A small cable
• Headpiece

Internal Components:

• Electrode placed in the cochlea of the inner ear
• A small receiver/stimulator placed under the skin behind the ear
• Magnet

How Cochlear Implants Work

The speech processor captures the sounds from the environment through a tiny microphone.  It processes the sound into digital information.  It transmits the information to the implant via the headpiece.  The implant converts the digital information into electrical signals.  It then sends signals down tiny wires to the electrode in the cochlea of the inner ear.  The electrode delivers the electrical signals to the hearing nerve.  The hearing nerve carries the information to the brain, where your brain then processes it as sound.

 

The Two Types of Cochlear Implants We Use

At Tufts Medical Center, we use two brands of cochlear implants.  Each manufacturer brings its own unique features.  Your Implant Team will help determine which is right for you. 

Advanced Bionics Corporation, makers of the Clarion implant.  www.advancedbionics.com

The Cochlear Corporation, makers of the Nucleus implant.  www.cochlearamericas.com

We welcome your questions. 
Please email us at smcdonald@tufts-nemc.org