FAQs and Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
An audiology booth is used to test the hearing of infants and children after receiving a cochlear implant.What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device that provides a sense of sound to a patient who is deaf or hard of hearing.
Who is a cochlear implant candidate?
Adults and children who meet the FDA criteria for implantation and who are healthy enough to undergo surgery are cochlear implant candidates.
How long have cochlear implants been available?
Cochlear implants have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration since 1985 for adults and 1990 for children.
Will a cochlear implant restore normal hearing?
No. Although a cochlear implant will provide a sense of hearing to a patient it does not "cure" hearing loss. The patient will need to learn to listen and use the electrical stimulation for communication. Speech and language will take time and experience to develop. Auditory verbal training and therapy can help patients develop the needed listening skills to get the most benefit from his or her implant.
Will my child receive one implant or two?
One cochlear implant can provide the child with access to sound. Two cochlear implants will improve the ability to hear speech in noise and help with localization (knowing what direction sounds are coming from). Most children will receive one implant to start, unless there is a medical reason for obtaining two. Once the first implant is being used successfully, we will discuss implanting the second ear if appropriate.
Can the implant be worn while playing sports?
In most cases, yes. Contact sports, however, are not recommended. Some devices are waterproof as well, but make sure you ask your audiologist if the device you have chosen may be used in the water. Deep water diving is not recommended as it may harm the implanted device.
Can the processor be removed at night?
Yes. The processor should always be removed while sleeping/at night to let the scalp rest and to charge the processor’s batteries. The processor should be stored in a dry-n-store container (this will be provided) to remove moisture.
Resources
Cochlear Implant Center at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital - Patient & Parent Information (PDF)
Cochlear Implant Steering Committee
The Cochlear Implant Center at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital understands how difficult it may be for patients and families to cope with a diagnosis of hearing loss. For this reason, many of our patients and families have come together to form a steering committee and support group to help each other and guide new families along the path from diagnosis to cochlear implantation and beyond.
Please contact us if you would like to speak with one of our patient/family ambassadors.
American Cochlear Implant Alliance
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Center for Hearing and Communication
Must be a Broward County resident to receive services.
Tracy Perez, PsyD
Director of Mental Health Services
2900 W. Cypress Creek Road
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309
954-601-1930 ext. 316 (voice)
954-601-1399 (fax)
954-601-1938 (TTY) 954-642-2351 (VRS)
Early Steps
Early intervention services for children from birth to three years. Must be referred by your physician or audiologist.
My Baby’s Hearing
Resource for all things related to newborn hearing screening and follow-up (English and Spanish).
