Unlock a World of Sound with Cochlear Implant

Close your eyes for a moment and try to imagine a world devoid of sound, where laughter, music, and conversations exist only as silent echoes. For countless individuals in Indonesia, this harsh reality is a daily experience due to hearing loss. According to a study from the Esa Unggul University, the number of hearing loss sufferers in Indonesia is relatively high, with 4.6% of the population, and is ranked fourth in Southeast Asia after Sri Lanka, Myanmar and India. Yet, in the face of this challenge, there exists a beacon of hope—the groundbreaking Cochlear Implant Procedure that has the power to unlock and rediscover a world of sound.

The Cochlear Implant Procedure stands as a testament to the marvels of modern medical science. This transformative procedure involves the surgical implantation of an electronic device within the mastoid bone behind the ear, designed with the singular purpose of restoring the precious gift of hearing. At its core, this ingenious device comprises a set of electrodes that intricately stimulates the cochlear hair cells, sending signals directly to the auditory nerve, thereby allowing individuals to once again perceive sound in all its rich nuances.

Hearing loss, a condition that knows no age boundaries, can strike at any stage of life—from the tender age of a newborn to adulthood. While genetic factors play a significant role in congenital hearing loss, it is vital to recognise that environmental factors, prenatal influences, and infective causes can also contribute to this challenging condition. According to the National Health Service (NHS) England, the statistics paint a stark picture; the incidence of hearing loss in newborns is estimated at 1 to 2 babies in every 1,000 live births. For adults, a range of medical conditions and exposure to noise hazards can lead to severe hearing impairment. The consequences of untreated hearing loss are intense, encompassing delayed speech and language development in children, workplace challenges, social isolation, and an elevated risk of dementia and depression in adults.

Symptoms of hearing loss manifest in unique ways across different age groups. For children, it can manifest as speech delays, while for adults, it often manifests as difficulty in understanding spoken language. In this landscape of auditory challenges, Cochlear implants emerge as a beacon of hope, particularly for those who have grappled with the limitations of traditional hearing aids. This life changing procedure involves a surgical implantation process, followed by a healing period lasting 2 to 4 weeks. Once this healing phase concludes, the device is activated, setting the stage for a transformative journey.

The road to regaining the symphony of life involves Speech Therapy and Audiology sessions aimed at enhancing speech and language skills. It is worth noting that early intervention is crucial, especially for children, as speech and language development occur most rapidly during the first three years of life. Cochlear implants can be a lifeline for children as young as nine months, offering them an opportunity for enhanced language development.

A dedicated team of experts, including Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeons, audiologists, and speech therapists, meticulously assess candidates for this life-changing surgery. Their assessments encompass comprehensive evaluations, including hearing assessments and scans. Post-surgery, patients embark on a journey of regular sessions with audiologists and speech therapists, ensuring sustained progress. The surgical procedure typically involves a hospital stay of approximately 3 to 4 days, followed by a crucial follow-up appointment within 2 to 4 weeks for the activation of the implant.

However, as the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. The Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening Programme in Malaysia stands as a testament to this belief. This programme ensures that all newborns undergo painless and non-invasive hearing tests, providing early detection of potential hearing loss. One such hospital participating in this programme is KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital (KPJ Johor), where dedicated healthcare professionals employ tests like Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAE) or Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR). These tests gently probe the ear canal, sending signals to the cochlea, enabling the measurement of outer hair cell integrity and cochlear function.

In cases where hearing loss is suspected in a child, the journey towards early detection and intervention can commence as early as one day after birth. The specialised centre at KPJ Johor boasts a team of skilled audiologists, well-prepared to administer appropriate hearing tests designed to cater to children and adults of varying age groups. These tests encompass a range of methods, including Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR), Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA), Play Audiometry and Conventional Audiograms.

In the grand symphony of life, hearing is a cherished instrument, and Cochlear Implants serve as the virtuoso's bow, gracefully restoring the harmony of sound for those who have momentarily lost their way in this enchanting melody.

Dr. Azida Zainal Anuar’s Profile:

Dr. Azida Zainal Anuar is a valued member of a team of highly experienced medical professionals specialising in Ear, Nose, and Throat-Head and Neck Surgery at KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of ENT procedures, including advanced surgical interventions (e.g. Cochlear Implant Procedure) and innovative treatments for patients seeking relief from ear, nose, and throat conditions.

Located in Johor Bahru, Johor, KPJ Johor is the first private healthcare hospital under the umbrella of KPJ Healthcare Berhad, Malaysia’s leading private healthcare provider. This advanced healthcare provider offers world-class healthcare treatments through state-of-the-art technologies, support services, impeccable facilities, and patient-centric environment across major clinical specialties that enhance top-notch patient care experience. KPJ Johor’s most recent recognition as Oncology (Medical) Service Provider of the Year in Asia Pacific by Global Health Asia Pacific Awards 2023 stands as a testament to its commitment to excellence.

For further information, please contact us at the following address or scan the QR Code.

Group Health Tourism

Tel: +6019 324 3208

Email: medtourism@kpjhealth.com.my

Website: www.kpjhealth.com.my

KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital Health Tourism

Tel: +60 7-225 3000

Email: jsh@jsh.kpjhealth.com.my

Website: https://kpjhealth.com.my/johor/

Consultant Profile: https://www.kpjhealth.com.my/johor/doctor/dr-azida-zainal-anuar