Cochlear Implants (Pediatric)

Cochlear implant surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Your child’s ENT surgeon will make a small incision behind the ear. The implant is then placed under the skin and the electrode is inserted into the inner ear. The surgical team will perform tests to measure your response to the implant. The incision will be closed, often with disposable stitches, so there may be no stitches to remove later.

Your doctor will talk with you about when your child’s implant can be activated and paired with a sound processor, typically three to four weeks after surgery. During your child’s activation appointment, you can expect:

• The external processor is placed and activated on your child’s head
• Your child will experience their first “listening day” with soft initial settings
• Introduction to new sounds in a gentle, child friendly way
• Set up appointments with the company to review all the components provided to you

• Ongoing audiology follow up
• Speech, language, and listening therapy
• Family education and coaching
• Progress monitoring
• School and early intervention support
• Equipment care and troubleshooting
• Emotional and social support
• Long term partnership with your care team

If you have any questions regarding pediatric audiology services, please reach out. Our pediatric audiology cochlear implant team coordinator can be reached by calling 203-688-8836 or email at [email protected]