MED-EL Presents: World Cochlear Implant Day 2023 – Over 45 years of major technological advances that enhance hearing and quality of life

The cochlear implant systems that we know today with small designs and built-in future-ready technology have come a long way since Austrian scientists Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair began working on their first devices in the early 1970s. While the initial CIs required bulky body-worn audio processors, they revolutionized the way individuals with sensorineural hearing loss could experience the world by restoring a sense of sound and speech. Today’s hearing implants are much smaller, worn behind the ear, and feature an innovative technology that enables recipients to hear all sounds – even the fine nuances of music. Ten years ago, the RONDO audio processor by MED-EL further simplified life for its users through integrating microphone, processor, coil, and power supply in one compact device about the size of a coin.

The future of cochlear implants looks just as exciting, with totally implantable CIs already in clinical trials, as well as new features incorporating AI.

Enhanced quality of life

The continuous improvements in technology and design offer people of all ages with hearing loss new quality of life. Studies have shown that children born without hearing benefit most when they receive implants as early as possible, ideally in their first year of life.^[2] Early implantation provides them the chance to develop similar language skills as children with normal hearing abilities.^[3] Colleen, a US-based mother, says about her son, “Liam’s implants are a part of him but do not define or limit him in any way. Because of his implants, he now has exactly the life I envisioned for him as a baby.”

Fortunately, implants are not only for children. A CI can also restore quality of life for adults with hearing loss, facilitating a more active social life as well as improved relationships with families and friends.

“Without my cochlear implant, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all the accomplishments I did over the years and have such a good relationship with my family, friends, and teachers,” says Sharlene, a CI recipient from the Philippines.

Yet, many potential candidates do not receive a CI. While almost all implants for children are reimbursed, this is hardly the case for adults, leaving many individuals with severe to profound hearing loss disadvantaged. On average, less than 10% of people who could benefit from a CI actually receive one.^[4]

Addressing hearing loss as early as possible

Hearing loss is still ignored or accepted as being part of ageing. However, scientists recently discovered that untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia by as much as 8%.^[5] This highlights the importance of taking even the slightest trace of hearing loss seriously – not only for oneself but also for loved ones.

“Don’t accept hearing loss as part of life and ageing. If you or someone you know is having difficulty hearing, it is important to seek professional advice at an early stage,” urges Ingeborg Hochmair, founder and CEO of MED-EL.