Artificial Cochlear Implants

Artificial cochlear implants are electronic devices that primarily convert sound into encoded signals through an external speech processor, stimulating the patient's nerves to restore and reconstruct their hearing ability. If the artificial cochlear implant is not damaged, it can generally be worn continuously. If it malfunctions, it can be surgically re-implanted. Now, let's explore some questions related to artificial cochlear implants.

1. Are Artificial Cochlear Implants Lifetime Devices?

Currently, once an artificial cochlear implant is worn, it is intended to be a lifelong device. Theoretically, the implanted cochlear should last a lifetime, but there are no absolute guarantees. Globally, the application of artificial cochlear implant technology has been around for approximately 30 years. In China, the official implantation time has allowed patients to regain hearing and communicate normally for slightly over 20 years. However, according to surveys, there have been rare instances of malfunctions, such as children who fell and had their implants suddenly stop working. The occurrence rate is low, approximately 1% or even lower. Early models may have had some issues, but with technological advancements, the chance of malfunction has decreased, though it cannot be completely eliminated. Ideally, the cochlear implant should last a lifetime, but given that the technology has only been around for 30 years, we cannot fully predict future outcomes.

Additionally, artificial cochlear implants consist of both internal and external components. If the external component malfunctions, it can be replaced with a new one without issue. If the internal component malfunctions, surgical intervention may be required for re-implantation. Although this occurrence is rare, it has happened. For instance, I encountered a child who fell after implantation, resulting in a malfunction. The implant had to be removed and replaced with a new one of the same model. Therefore, while the occurrence of malfunctions is low, it cannot be completely ruled out.

2. What is an Artificial Cochlear Implant?

An artificial cochlear implant is an electronic device that converts sound into electrically encoded signals through an external speech processor. These signals are then transmitted to electrodes implanted within the body, directly stimulating the auditory nerve to restore or reconstruct hearing function in deaf individuals. In recent years, with advancements in electronics, computer technology, phonetics, electrophysiology, materials science, and otomicrosurgery, artificial cochlear implants have transitioned from experimental research to clinical applications. Nowadays, artificial cochlear implants are routinely used worldwide as a treatment for severe to profound hearing loss.

3. How Much Does an Artificial Cochlear Implant Surgery Cost?

The cost of artificial cochlear implant surgery varies depending on whether the device is domestically produced or imported, as well as its quality. Domestic artificial electronic cochlear implants typically cost around 80,000 yuan, while imported models can range from over 100,000 to 200,000 yuan. The level of financial support provided by the government also affects the cost, with some programs offering partial exemptions, while others may require full payment for imported devices, resulting in potentially higher costs.