The cochlear implant has external and internal components. The external system includes a microphone, a speech processor computer, and a broadcast antenna. Surgery inserts the internal components, an internal receiver antenna, an internal processor, and an electrode that inserts inside of the cochlea. The individual then wears an external receiver, a microphone and a speech processor. A magnet holds the receiver to the head. The receiver is connected to a speech processor with a thin wire. The processor picks up sounds and converts them to coded signals. These coded signals are converted to electrical stimuli, which are then sent to the internal receiver and ultimately to the electrode array. These electrodes then stimulate the auditory nerve, which then sends information to the brain.Our pediatric and adult cochlear implant program offers the latest technology in implants that are currently on the market. We work with all three major cochlear implant companies: Advanced Bionics, MedEL, Cochlear Corporation. Our program is composed of a multi-disciplinary team of hearing healthcare specialists. The Tampa Bay Hearing and Balance Center coordinates care with multiple other resources in the State including public and private schools, the Bolesta Center, speech and language pathologists, social services for hearing impaired persons, and researchers in the area of cochlear implants, and nurses.The initial evaluation, audiological testing, medical consultaion, preoperative consultation, and postoperative device programming are done at the Tampa Bay Hearing and Balance Center.For patients coming from a distance, we make every effort to schedule appointments all on the same day. We can also provide information on lodging that is available in the area.
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