Criteria for Cochlear Implantation

Criteria for Adults

1. Bilateral severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss
2. Minimal benefit from appropriate hearing aids
3. Postlingual deafness in ear to be implanted or recent use of hearing aid
4. Healthy enough to undergo surgery
5. Present cochlea and auditory canal as evidenced by CAT scan
6. Appropriate expectation of outcomes

Criteria for Children

1. 12 months - 17 years
2. Severe to profound deafness
3. Minimal benefit from appropriate amplification
4. Aural educational setting (Auditory-Verbal preferred in pre-school years.)
5. Appropriate commitment and expectations of family.
6. Present cochlea and auditory canal as evidenced by CAT scan
7. Healthy enough to undergo surgery

Special Considerations in Children

Parents of children who receive cochlear implants must appreciate the considerable time commitment involved. They must agree to return with the child to the implant center for follow-up testing and monitoring of the cochlear implant. The parents also must be willing to cooperate and work with the child’s educators to provide appropriate habilitation. An implanted child has a decreased chance of success if he or she receives an education with a curriculum organized around ASL (sign language).

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