Cochlear implantation: adult and paediatrics
Published on 07 February 2024
The Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme (SCIP) is for profoundly deaf adults and children. It provides assessment and specialist implantation surgery. Speech and language therapy support and follow up are also part of the service. It's based inside Crosshouse Hospital, Kilmarnock.
What is cochlear implantation?
The aim of cochlear implantation is to provide individuals with functional hearing. Usually, it's for cases of severe-to-profound deafness where patients gain little or no benefit from conventional acoustic hearing aids. A cochlear implant system converts acoustic sound waves into electrical stimulation. Delivery of this then goes direct to the cochlea. It bypasses damaged hair cells, stimulates nerve endings and gives the individual a hearing sensation.
Enabling profoundly deaf patients to acquire (or keep) functional spoken language is the goal.
Local assessments take place before referrals to the service are necessary. These referrals usually come from local consultant ENT surgeons or audiologists.
Further information on the Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme (SCIP) is available on the NHS Ayrshire & Arran website.