Pre-Implant for Candidates

Not everyone qualifies for a cochlear implant.  There are specific guidelines outlining who qualifies.

Who is a candidate?

• Adults and children 12 months of age and older.


• Severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss.


• Minimal benefit with hearing aids.

The USC Cochlear Implant Program uses a team approach to ensure the best possible outcome for a potential candidate.  The candidacy requirements involve a consultation, audiological evaluation, complete medical evaluation(s), speech and language evaluation, and professional team meeting.

Consultation

A consultation is conducted at the USC Speech & Hearing Center with both a speech-language pathologist and an audiologist on the CI Team. During the consultation, a complete history of the candidate is obtained. Candidacy requirements, surgery and hardware needed for the device are reviewed. Also discussed are the rehabilitation expectations and options. Family commitment and support group meetings are emphasized for success with the device.

Audiological Evaluation

A complete hearing evaluation is administered by a licensed audiologist at the USC Speech & Hearing Center. Both an unaided hearing evaluation and an aided hearing evaluation are completed. Specialized testing is needed to determine if a patient qualifies according to FDA audiological guidelines. Please have both of your hearing aids in good working condition for this evaluation.

 

Medical Evaluation(s)

The medical evaluation is conducted by the cochlear implant surgeon on the team. This evaluation is performed is done by Dr. Scott Thompson at Carolina Eye and Ear Assocaiates. Radiological testing will also be completed. Additional medical testing is at the discretion of the cochlear implant surgeon.

Speech-Language Evaluation

A complete speech-language evaluation is done at the USC Speech & Hearing Center by a licensed speech-language pathologist. Every patient, adults and children, undergo this testing.

Team Meeting

Once all appointments and evaluations are completed, the professionals on the Cochlear Implant Team will discuss your case and determine if you have met all criteria for the cochlear implant.

You must have all of these evaluations completed before consideration for a cochlear implant.

We will do our best to see you in a timely and organized manner. Due to the number of appointments and different locations of Team members, we will not be able to have all appointments on the same day, but we will try to group appointments. If you have not completed an evaluation and you do not have an appointment already scheduled, you may need to contact the facility to set up an appointment. Feel free to call to confirm or schedule needed appointments.