Evaluation Process

Information about our program and cochlear implantation can be found on our website or can be mailed to the candidate's family. Please click on the cochlear implant packet link or e-mail: cochlear.implant@mcw.edu to get a cochlear implant packet. The packet will need to be completed and mailed to our center along with all available hearing tests. Once this information is received, you will be contacted to schedule the necessary appointments.

Appointments:

Audiological Evaluation (2-3 visits on the average, depending on the age of the child)

• Hearing tests are done to supplement the information that has been received from you and your records. These visits include an unaided audiogram, a hearing aid evaluation, and an aided audiogram (right, left and binaural).
   
• Speech perception testing is done to determine the child's ability to understand words and sentences with their hearing aids and the contribution of each ear to speech understanding.

Speech/Language Evaluation (~ 2 hrs)

• Speech production skills 

• Expressive and receptive vocabulary and language skills
   
• Evaluation of the oral structures and their possible effect on speech production

Medical/Otological Consultation (~ 1 hr)

• History and physical examination
   
• Integration of audiologic testing data
   
• Review and interpretation of CT and/or MRI studies of the temporal bone
   
• Assignment of medical diagnosis of the hearing loss
   
• Discussion of appropriateness of candidacy and review of the surgical procedure

Psychological Evaluation (~ 2 hrs)

• Assessmnet of nonverbal learning ability;

• Assessment of behavioral and emotional judgement;

• Discussion with parents about any specific concerns they have regarding their child's psychological adjustment.

Additional Evaluation as Needed

• Review test results
   
• Discuss how the cochlear implant works and explain the latest technology
   
• Discuss factors that can affect the child's performance with a cochlear implant and reasonable post-implant expectations should the child be implanted
   
• Review the necessary post-implant follow-up appointments

Cochlear Implant Decision

• After the testing is completed and the family has a good understanding of the process and expectations, a decision regarding surgery is made by the cochlear implant team and family. To the extent possible, children are included in discussions throughout the process. Family members are encouraged to continue these discussions at home.