These 'codes' travel up a thin cable to the headpiece and are transmitted across the skin via radio waves to the implanted electrodes in the cochlea. The electrodes' signals stimulate the auditory nerve fibers to send information to the brain where it is interpreted as meaningful sound. Implants are designed only for individuals who attain almost no benefit from a hearing aid. Your local doctor can refer you to an implant clinic for an evaluation. The otolaryngologist examines the middle and inner ear to ensure that no active infection or other abnormality precludes the implant surgery.
Implant surgery is performed under general anesthesia and lasts from two to three hours.
An incision is made behind the ear to open the mastoid bone leading to the middle ear. The procedure may be done as an outpatient, or may require a stay in the hospital, overnight or for several days, depending on the device used and the anatomy of the inner ear. About one month after surgery, your team places the signal processor, microphone, and implant transmitter outside your ear and adjusts them. They teach you how to look after the system and how to listen to sound through the implant. Some implants take longer to fit and require more training.