Medical Health Encyclopedia

Cochlear implant

Some patients can learn to communicate on the telephone, whereas others can only recognize sound. Achieving maximal results can take several years, and requires motivation on the part of the patient. Patients are often enrolled in programs to help with rehabilitation of hearing and speech.

LIVING WITH AN IMPLANT

Once full healing has occurred, there are few absolute restrictions for cochlear implant users. Most activities are acceptable, although some physicians recommend avoiding full-contact sports, in order to lessen the chance of trauma to the implanted device.

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Most patients with cochlear implants cannot get MRI scans, as the implant is metallic.

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