When implanted early after the onset of a loss, the enhanced perception of sound may be expected to provide the child with the information required for spoken language acquisition. Parents have reported rapid behavioral improvement postimplant. Increased intelligibility of speech has also been reported. Cochlear implants are highly reliable but must be accompanied by an intensive auditory rehabilitation component for successful use. Little is currently known about the long-term effect of the cochlear implant.
Implants require surgery.
Although post-surgical complications have been quite low, there are risks of infection with surgical procedures. The expense of the medical, audiological, rehabilitation, and educational components of surgical implantation is significant. Although uncommon, certain conditions may require re-implantation of the device. References and Additional Resources American Speech and Hearing Association. Report of the Ad Hoc Committee on Cochlear Implants.