Cochlear implants are surgically implanted assistive devices that can pick up on sound waves within the ear for those who have progressive hearing loss. Although these medical devices cannot fully restore lost hearing, they help individuals understand speech with required speech therapy and rehabilitation.
Who can have Cochlear Implants?
Cochlear implant devices are recommended for anyone who wouldn't benefit from a hearing aid. Most people won't find implants as effective as a hearing aid; however, a few people would qualify for cochlear implants instead. These individuals include:
- Young or middle-aged adults with hearing loss from genetics, autoimmune diseases, or any other unknown reasons
- Kids born deaf
- Adults with progressive hearing from noise exposure or old age
Disadvantages Associated with Cochlear Implants
While getting cochlear devices implanted is considered a fairly simple routine medical procedure, like any surgery, it comes with risks. It's important to discuss these with your healthcare provider before moving forward with the procedure.
Some of these risks include:
- Meningitis. An infection of the lining of the surface of the brain. People who have abnormally formed inner ear structures are sometimes at greater risk of this complication.
- Nerve damages. The facial nerve goes through the middle ear to give movement to the muscles of the face. It's close to the surgical location of the implant, putting it at risk. This injury can cause temporary (or permanent, depending on the severity of the damages) weakening or paralysis on the face, usually on the same side as the implant.
- Cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Fluid around the brain could begin to leak from a hole created in the inner ear due to the surgical procedure.
Besides the physical disadvantage that comes with cochlear implantation, there are also a few non-physical factors to consider. For individuals who are not medically insured, the procedure for this implantation can be a bit costly. Cochlear implants require ongoing maintenance for things like configuration and being properly fitted. Some implants come with waterproofing for activities like swimming, and however, for high contact sports, it may be best to remove the device while participating.
What Can I Do?
If you are suffering from a failing cochlear device, your first step should involve contacting your healthcare provider to get it removed. It's important to report any increased pain or drainage right away; this way you can be examined for possible damage. Once you've received medical attention, you should certainly consider contacting an experienced product liability lawyer. Working with an attorney can help you understand and protect your rights. Cochlear implants can quickly become a financial burden on patients when faced with numerous medical bills and potentially lost wages.
If you or someone you know are victims of a defective or failing cochlear implant, contact us today to learn more about your legal rights, as you may be owed financial compensation. Here at Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation, our product liability attorneys can open an investigation, pinpoint liable parties, and recover the wages you need to pay for your expenses.
Our team handles the most cochlear implant cases in Los Angeles, so we are the best. We understand the struggles our clients have undergone to recover from their cochlear implant-related injuries fully. We've recovered millions for other clients in similar situations, and we can help you too.
Contact the skilled team at Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation today to discuss the details of your case by calling (866) 884-1717 or by filling out the online contact form.