An overview of Auditory Brainstem Implant
An auditory brainstem implant test is an evaluation to determine if a person is a candidate for an auditory brainstem implant. The test assesses the individual's hearing abilities and the condition of their auditory nerves and inner ear. The goal of the test is to determine if an auditory brainstem implant can provide a hearing benefit for the person, as this type of implant bypasses the damaged or nonworking parts of the inner ear and directly stimulates the brainstem to help detect sounds. If the test indicates that an auditory brainstem implant may be beneficial, the individual may be considered for the surgical procedure.
What is Auditory Brainstem Implant used for?
An auditory brainstem implant is used for people with hearing loss, typically due to missing or very small hearing nerves or severely abnormal inner ears, who cannot benefit from a hearing aid or cochlear implant. The implant directly stimulates the hearing pathways in the brainstem, bypassing the inner ear and hearing nerve. It is an alternative approach for those who cannot receive a cochlear implant and aims to restore hearing by detecting sounds.
How is Auditory Brainstem Implant conducted?
An auditory brainstem implant test is typically conducted by an audiologist to determine if a person is a candidate for an auditory brainstem implant. The test involves evaluating the function of the auditory nerve and the inner ear, as well as assessing the individual's ability to understand speech and other sounds. During the test, the audiologist will perform a series of hearing tests, including pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry. These tests help determine the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as the presence of any abnormalities such as tumors or nerve damage. Additionally, the audiologist may use imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to visualize the inner ear and auditory nerve, and to assess their structure and function. Based on the results of these tests, the audiologist will determine if an auditory brainstem implant is a suitable option for the individual. If so, they will work with the person to program the implant and provide training on how to use and interpret the signals generated by the device.
How are Auditory Brainstem Implant results reported?
Auditory brainstem implant results are reported in terms of sound detection and interpretation. While the implant doesn't restore normal hearing, it can help people distinguish sounds such as telephone rings and car horns. The effectiveness of the implant varies from person to person, with some individuals experiencing good word recognition and others getting more general sound cues. The results are often combined with lip reading, which can improve communication with others.
Understanding the report
When interpreting the results of an auditory brainstem implant, it's essential to understand that the device doesn't restore normal hearing. However, it can help most people distinguish sounds such as telephone rings and car horns. The results may vary among individuals, with some people achieving good word recognition and others getting more general sound cues. Combined with lip reading, these cues can improve communication with others. After the surgery, the individual will undergo many sessions with an audiologist to adjust the sound processor and learn how to use and interpret the signals. This process can take several months, and the person will generally see an audiologist every two to four months during the first year and annually after the first year. It's important to note that an auditory brainstem implant is an alternative approach for individuals who can't have a cochlear implant. While a cochlear implant generally provides better quality sound, it may not be suitable in all situations, such as when there is a small or missing auditory nerve, an unusually shaped inner ear, or damage from a skull fracture.
Limitations and Considerations
The auditory brainstem implant is not appropriate for everyone, and it has some limitations. Some people may not experience any hearing benefit despite appropriate device placement. Additionally, while the implant can help people distinguish sounds like telephone rings and car horns, it doesn't restore normal hearing. It may also be less effective than a cochlear implant in providing clear sound quality. However, the main limitation of the auditory brainstem implant is its applicability to specific cases. It is mostly used for people with neurofibromatosis type 2, and in some cases, for those with other nerve and inner ear abnormalities. Not everyone with hearing loss can receive an auditory brainstem implant due to factors such as a small or missing auditory nerve or an unusually shaped inner ear.