Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program

A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device that provides useful hearing and improved communication ability to individuals who have a severe to profound hearing loss and do not receive benefit from hearing aids.

Since 1987, PEI has been regarded as the premier cochlear implant practice in New Mexico. Focusing on the study of pediatric multichannel cochlear implants, PEI was one of the initial FDA approved sites for cochlear implantation for children. Now, PEI is home to New Mexico’s largest cochlear implant program for children and adults. Currently, we are the only pediatric cochlear implant program in New Mexico.

Our Audiologists have over 50 years combined experience to assist our clients through surgery and transitioning into the hearing world. We work with all three cochlear implant companies in order to choose the best technology for each client.

Cochlear implant candidacy is based on your child’s individual hearing ability. Presbyterian Ear Institute audiologists have extensive experience and knowledge in evaluating children and adults for a cochlear implant.

The candidacy evaluation may consist of some or all of the following appointments:

Review hearing and medical history
Discuss your goals for your child
Evaluate your child’s hearing with and without hearing aids to determine if hearing aids are providing enough benefit for speech and language development.
Speech and language evaluation with a speech pathologist who specializes in pediatric hearing loss.
Review results from the evaluation and counsel on appropriate expectations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child swim with their cochlear implant device?
Having a Cochlear Implant doesn't stop your child from enjoying their favorite water activities. All three cochlear implant manufacturers offer a water proof solution so your child can enjoy listening to friends and family while they are in the water. The water proof solutions have been great for swim lessons, swim team, or just hanging out at the beach.

Will my child hear music?
Although music may not sound the same to your child as it does to you, your child will still be able to enjoy music with their cochlear implant. Additionally, their settings can be optimized to help further enhance the quality of music for your child.

Can my child play sports with their device on?
Yes, your child can play sports with their devices on! Your Audiologist can help you and your child find the best retention option, to keep the devices in place, while your child participates in their favorite sports and activities. Sports have never become a limitation for child. If anything, the implant has provided them with the opportunity to participate in whatever they wanted to. Of course, all children should be protected from a blow to the head and should protect the implant from direct trauma. Make sure your child always wears a helmet when playing sports or participating in activities that requires one.

Are there assistance devices that pair with my child’s cochlear implant to help when my child attends mainstream school?
When attending school, it is important for your child to hear their best in all situations. Fortunately, there are assistance devices such as remote microphones, Roger, and FM systems to help them in more difficult listening environments. These devices are connected to your child’s cochlear implant processor(s). The teacher or speaker wears a microphone near their mouth which then transmits their voice either directly to their processors or through a receiver connected to your child’s processors. These assistive devices are effective in improving your child’s ability to understand speech in noisy environments or when the talker is speaking at a distance, such as in the classroom.