At Mediclinic in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, we are dedicated to providing advanced solutions for individuals with severe hearing loss. Cochlear implants are one of the most effective treatments for patients who do not benefit sufficiently from traditional hearing aids. These implants offer a new way of experiencing sound by bypassing damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulating the auditory nerve.
Pre-operative Assessment for Candidates
The journey to improved hearing with a cochlear implant begins with a comprehensive pre-operative assessment. At Mediclinic, we cater to both adult and paediatric cases, ensuring that each candidate receives personalised and thorough evaluation.
Adult Candidates
For adults, the assessment involves a detailed medical and audiological evaluation to determine the degree of hearing loss and the potential benefit from a cochlear implant. This includes:
- Audiological tests to measure hearing acuity and speech recognition
- Imaging studies, such as MRI and CT scans, to assess the inner ear's anatomy
- A thorough review of the patient's medical history and overall health
- Psychological evaluation to ensure the candidate is mentally prepared for the implant and the rehabilitation process
Paediatric Candidates
For children, early intervention is crucial for optimal speech and language development. Our paediatric assessment includes:
- Audiological tests tailored for children to evaluate hearing levels
- Detailed imaging studies to examine the inner ear structure
- Assessment of speech and language development
- Discussions with parents to understand the child’s communication needs and expectations from the implant
Cochlear Implant Surgery
Mediclinic in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain performs cochlear implant surgeries in collaboration with renowned consultants from Saudi Arabia, including Dr. Abdulrahman Hagr and Dr. Farid Alzhrani, both well respected otolaryngologists. The surgical procedure involves:
Insertion of Internal Parts: The surgical team implants the internal components, which include a transmitter and electrodes, into the cochlea. These electrodes will later transmit sound signals directly to the auditory nerve.
Testing and Activation: After the insertion, our audiology medical doctor tests the response of the cochlear and auditory nerves to ensure proper placement and functionality of the electrodes.
Activation of External Parts: On the same day of the surgery, or the day after at the latest, the external parts of the implant, including the speech processor, are activated and tested.
Our Team
Our expert team at Mediclinic in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain brings extensive experience and expertise to our cochlear implant programme. Their collaboration ensures that our patients receive the highest standard of care and the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Omnya Zein
Audiovestibular Medicine and Cochlear Implant, MBBCH, MSC, MD
Dr. Prof. Abdulrahman Hagr
President of Saudi ORL Society, President of Arab Academy of Otology and Cochlear implant, Professor at King Saud University, Director of King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center, King Aziz Hospital.
How Cochlear Implants Work
Cochlear implants transform the way individuals perceive sound. Here's a step-by-step overview of the process:
- Speech Processor: The speech processor captures sounds from the environment, converting them into digital signals.
- Transmitter: These signals are sent to the transmitter, which is placed just under the skin.
- Electrodes: The transmitter sends the signals to the electrodes implanted in the cochlea.
- Auditory Nerve: The electrodes stimulate the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged hair cells in the cochlea.
- Brain: The auditory nerve then sends these signals to the brain, which interprets them as sound.
Post-operative Care and Rehabilitation
Post-operative care is a critical component of the cochlear implant process. At Mediclinic in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, we offer comprehensive post-operative programming and rehabilitation services to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Programming
After the surgery, the cochlear implant needs to be fine-tuned to meet the specific needs of the patient. This involves:
Initial mapping and programming of the speech processor
Regular follow-up visits to adjust the settings as the patient adapts to the new hearing sensations
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is essential for both adults and children to maximise the benefits of the cochlear implant. Our rehabilitation programme includes:
Auditory Training: Patients learn to interpret the new sounds and improve their listening skills.
Speech and Language Therapy: Especially important for paediatric patients, this therapy helps in developing clear speech and effective communication skills.
Counselling and Support: We provide ongoing support to patients and their families to help them adjust to life with a cochlear implant.
Follow-up and Monitoring
Continuous monitoring and follow-up are vital to ensure the long-term success of the cochlear implant. At Mediclinic, we offer:
- Regular check-ups to monitor the patient’s progress
- Adjustments to the cochlear implant settings as needed
- Support and resources for any challenges the patient might face during their rehabilitation journey
Service Availability and Contact Information
Our cochlear implant services are available in Abu Dhabi at Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital and in Al Ain at Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital. To book your appointment, please call 8002000.
At Mediclinic in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, our comprehensive cochlear implant programme is designed to provide patients with severe hearing loss a new lease on life. From meticulous pre-operative assessments to expert surgical procedures and dedicated post-operative care, our team is committed to delivering the highest standard of care. Our collaboration with leading experts ensures that our patients receive the best possible outcomes, enabling them to reconnect with the world of sound and improve their quality of life.
