Hearing loss and deafness in childhood are significant obstacles to the development of speech, linguistic communication and social integration. Cochlear implants have revolutionized hearing restoration, allowing children with severe to very severe grade neurosensory hearing loss to develop their skills and join society equally.
What are cochlear implants?
These are advanced medical devices that not only enhance sounds, such as hearing aids, but convert the sounds into electrical signals, directing the acoustic nerve directly. In this way, they bypass the dysfunctional inner ear and offer children with severe hearing the opportunity to hear, speak and interact with the world around them.
Which children can benefit From cochlear implants?
Cochlear implants can offer significant benefits to children who meet the following criteria:
- Severe to very severe neurosensory hearing loss: Children who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids and have significant hearing problems.
- Early diagnosis: Children who are diagnosed early with hearing loss and are candidates for implantation before the critical age of language development.
Early diagnosis and early intervention are vital. Children receiving cochlear implant before the age of 2 are much more likely to develop normal speech and successfully integrate into a typical school environment.
Process of installation & rehabilitation
Its placement cochlear It is done through surgery, which is safe and well tolerated by children. After surgery, the rehabilitation period follows, which includes:
- Adjustment and planning of cochlear implant.
- Speech therapeutic rehabilitation and training in the new way of hearing.
- Regular monitoring by specialized pediatric-ORL and speech therapists.
What sets us apart in the Athens Pediatric Center of Cochlear Implants?
- Leading & Specialization: A group of specialized pediatric-ORL, speech therapists and acoustics with years of experience in childhood hearing loss.
- Holistic approach: Personalized rehabilitation shots designed to meet the unique needs of each child.
- Peak of technology: The most advanced cochlear implants and programming tools for excellent results.
- Constant support: We stand next to every family, from diagnosis to complete hearing recovery.
Here, science and care are united to change lives.
The future of children with cochlear implants
Thanks to cochlear implants, thousands of children around the world can now listen, speak and communicate effectively, claiming a normal life without restriction. With timely intervention and specialized support, they can fully develop their potential, integrate equal to education, work and society.
In the cochlear unit of Athens Pediatric Centerwe are committed to offering children not only hearing, but a future full of opportunities and sounds!
Writes Ioannis Athanasopoulos, Pediatrician Surgeon, Director Department of Athens Pediatric Center, Director of the Athens Medical Center Implant Unit.
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