Pediatric Cochlear Implant Center
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Cochlear implant evaluation and surgery
If your child has severe-to-profound hearing loss and hasn't benefited from hearing aids, they may be a candidate for a cochlear implant. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that directly stimulates the hearing nerve to allow a person to perceive sound.
For many children, cochlear implants offer a life-changing opportunity to hear more sounds and better understand speech. At UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, we have been developing and refining cochlear implant systems for decades.
Our approach to pediatric cochlear implants
Our pediatric specialists work as a team to provide cochlear implant evaluations, surgery and long-term, follow-up care. The team includes experts in pediatric:
Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat care)
Head and neck surgery
Psychiatry and psychology
We provide comprehensive evaluations to determine if a cochlear implant is the right hearing solution for your child. Our team evaluates their overall health, medical history and communication abilities before making a recommendation.
If your child has cochlear implant surgery, you receive comprehensive support and follow-up care every step of the way. We work closely with your family, as well as teachers, therapists and other providers to seamlessly coordinate your child's care. Our staff provides compassionate guidance as your child adjusts to their new device and throughout their entire care journey.
Cochlear implant evaluation and surgery
If your child has severe-to-profound hearing loss and hasn't benefited from hearing aids, they may be a candidate for a cochlear implant. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that directly stimulates the hearing nerve to allow a person to perceive sound.
For many children, cochlear implants offer a life-changing opportunity to hear more sounds and better understand speech. At UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, we have been developing and refining cochlear implant systems for decades.
Our approach to pediatric cochlear implants
Our pediatric specialists work as a team to provide cochlear implant evaluations, surgery and long-term, follow-up care. The team includes experts in pediatric:
Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat care)
Head and neck surgery
Psychiatry and psychology
We provide comprehensive evaluations to determine if a cochlear implant is the right hearing solution for your child. Our team evaluates their overall health, medical history and communication abilities before making a recommendation.
If your child has cochlear implant surgery, you receive comprehensive support and follow-up care every step of the way. We work closely with your family, as well as teachers, therapists and other providers to seamlessly coordinate your child's care. Our staff provides compassionate guidance as your child adjusts to their new device and throughout their entire care journey.
Providers
Kara Brodie, MD
Pediatrics • Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Dylan Chan, MD
Pediatric Otolaryngology
Charles Limb, MD
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (Otology) • Pediatric Otolaryngology
Anna K. Meyer, MD
Pediatric Otolaryngology • Sleep Medicine
Awards & achievements
Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Deafness
- Hearing Loss
- Hearing Loss (Profound)
Treatments
- Cochlear Implants
- Hearing Evaluation
- Speech Therapy
Trials & research
Clinical trials
Gene Therapy Trial for Otoferlin Gene-mediated Hearing LossOpens in a new window
Part A of this trial will evaluate the safety and tolerability of a single surgical administration procedure in one or both ear(s) with one of two dose levels of AAVAnc80-hOTOF and will evaluate the Akouos Delivery Device, together with the Precision Delivery Mechanism, to safely achieve the intended product performance.
Support services
Child Life
Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.
Family Amenities
Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.
Social Services at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.
Activity Rooms
Activity rooms offer a relaxed environment for children of all ages. Features include a playroom, digital arts studio and teen lounge. Find out more.
Pediatric Art Therapy Program
Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.
Pediatric Music Therapy Program
Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.
School Program for Hospitalized Children
Our schoolroom services and individual learning programs help children hospitalized at UCSF continue their education and get ready to return to school.
School Re-Entry Program
We help kids return to school after hospitalization by educating staff and students about their needs and recommending needed accommodations. Read more.
Individual Playtime & Instruction
If your child can't be around other kids for medical reasons, you can sign up for private sessions in our activity and school rooms. Find out how.
Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.
Parent Support Program
Weekly activities, including knitting, scrapbooking, chair massage and more, help family caregivers get a much-needed break. Find out more.
Patient Relations at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.
Spiritual Care at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Chaplains help UCSF patients, families and staff cope with the spiritual and emotional challenges of childhood illness. Learn more.
International Services at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.