Cochlear Implant Program (CIP)

What is the process for obtaining a cochlear implant?
Before receiving a cochlear implant, an extensive evaluation is performed that includes a hearing aid evaluation, testing by an audiologist, an assessment by an ear doctor, a speech language evaluation and possibly a psychological or social work evaluation. These tests are performed to ensure that candidacy requirements have been met, certain benefits may be provided by the implant, and proper resources are available to aid in successful use of the implant.

Once a person has been approved, surgery can be scheduled. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately three hours. Following surgery, a one to three day hospital stay is typical.

Approximately six weeks after surgery the speech processor will be turned on. This is performed at the Halifax Community Clinic, located at Park Lane. Threshold and comfort levels are obtained for each electrode, which creates a "map" that is stored on a computer chip inside your processor. This process is usually done in approximately three hours for adults, but can take up to five to six hours for children. (These times include time taken for counseling regarding use of the device and reviewing the accessory kit / battery charger, etc as well as addressing any other questions). It may be necessary to do this over a two-day period, especially with young children.

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