| Introduction
to Cochlear Implants
This is an edited extract from the third issue of "An introduction to Cochlear Implants" published by the NADP The first cochlear implant (Cl) was carried out in Paris in 1957 when a simple electrode was placed directly on to the auditory nerve that had been exposed by disease. From that rudimentary start have come the highly technical implants of today with much research carried out in the USA, Australia, France, Germany, Austria and the UK. At one time CIs were regarded as a last resort when everything else had failed. However this is not always the case these days as people who use hearing aids and with a particular kind of hearing loss may be successfully implanted. Some people see implants as a miracle cure for deafness whilst others are not happy with the idea of an operation to implant electrodes. There are also those who have come to terms with their deafness and are doubtful of the benefits of an implant. Whatever your preconceptions of a Cl and its particular relevance to you, we hope the book will provide some basic and impartial information about implants, help remove misconceptions and make it possible for you to decide if you want to make further enquiries. Remember though that CIs are only one amongst other aids and services available to deafened people. An implant may be only a partial answer to your problems. You may still need to use Typetalk, the telephone relay service, although many implanted people use the telephone successfully. Assistance might be required in group situations in order to follow and participate but there are external microphones and loop systems that can be used in conjunction with certain CIs. People who were initially unable to use a conventional hearing aid are now using the newer models to great advantage. Environmental aids such as flashing light and amplified doorbells, SMS mobile phones, vibrating alarm clocks can help make life easier. The National Association of Deafened People may be able to help with information in respect of the personal use of such aids and would welcome enquiries. Improving technology means there are many options now available to a deafened person that did not exist even as recently as 5 years ago and enquiries at your local Social Services department or Audiology Deparment may point you in the direction of a dedicated technical aids team. The book is too long to put up on the website but is available for purchase at £5.00 plus postage and packing. <click here> |