Cochlear Implant
Pronunciation: KOK-lee-ur IM-plant
Also written as: CI — Cochlear Implant
A surgically implanted electronic device that directly stimulates the auditory nerve, bypassing damaged cochlear hair cells to provide sound perception.
Full Definition
A cochlear implant (CI) consists of an external sound processor and an internal electrode array surgically inserted into the cochlea. Unlike a hearing aid, which amplifies sound, the CI converts acoustic signals into electrical impulses that stimulate surviving spiral ganglion neurons along the cochlea. Post-implantation aural rehabilitation is essential to help recipients learn to interpret the novel electrical signal. The device is indicated primarily for individuals with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss who receive limited benefit from conventional amplification.
Usage
Usage note: Lowercase in generic use; capitalise only when referring to a brand-specific product name. Abbreviate to CI on second reference. Do not confuse with 'hearing aid', which is an external non-surgical device.
In Context
- "Adults fitted with a cochlear implant attended a minimum of six aural rehabilitation sessions in the first post-operative year." — Clinical guideline
- "Ensure 'cochlear implant' is lowercase except at the start of a sentence; it is not a brand name." — Editorial style note