Cochlear Implant Program

Cochlea
Three-dimensional view of the cochlea constructed from high-resolution Synchrotron phase-contrast imaging. Courtesy of the Auditory Biophysics Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario (H. Ladak & S. Agrawal)

 




Team Members

Surgeons: Dr. Sumit Agrawal, Dr. Demir Bajin, Dr. Lorne Parnes

Our surgeons work closely with patients and their families to diagnose the cause of hearing loss and provide both medical and surgical clearance for the implant procedure. They also offer ongoing care and address any medical concerns after surgery.
 
Audiologists: Ashley Banyard, Marianne Hawkins, Laura Hopkins, Nicole Lanthier, Shari Syrovi, Katherine Vansevenant, Kim Zimmerman

Audiologists introduce potential candidates to the program, conduct pre- and post-implant assessments, offer counseling, and program the speech processor. They also collaborate with educators and other professionals to ensure comprehensive care
 
Social Worker: Lorraine Stuyt

The social worker offers counseling and support to patients and families, addressing the psychosocial effects of hearing loss and the auditory implant process. They also ensure the necessary resources and support systems are in place.
 
Administrator: Christa Cook

Christa is the main point of contact for patients and families. She coordinates appointments, handles communication through mail, email, telephone, or TTY/TTD, and ensures the smooth operation of the program.
 

Program Overview

Established in 1987, the LHSC Auditory Implant Program has been a leader in advancing hearing restoration technology. In 1989, we performed Ontario's first pediatric cochlear implant. We are proud to offer auditory implants fully funded by the Ministry of Health, ensuring there are no upfront costs for patients. Currently, we receive annual funding for 109 cochlear and auditory brainstem implants, and 30 bone conduction implants. Due to the limited availability of devices, approved candidates may need to be placed on a waiting list.

Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implantation is a highly effective, low-risk procedure for treating severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in both children and adults. This procedure bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear and provides restored hearing. Cochlear implants are recommended for individuals who receive little benefit from traditional hearing aids. The procedure is available for both single-sided and bilateral hearing loss, with some children and adults being candidates for bilateral implants. In certain cases, children born with profound deafness may be implanted as young as 8 months old. There is no upper age limit for adults, as long as they are in good health to undergo surgery.

Bone Conduction Implants

Bone conduction implants are ideal for treating conductive hearing loss when traditional hearing aids are not suitable or provide little benefit. Conductive hearing loss typically results from issues in the outer or middle ear, such as chronic infections, malformations, or ear trauma. The BoneBridge implant is one such option, offering a solution for those who cannot benefit from conventional hearing aids.

Auditory Brainstem Implants

Auditory brainstem implants are a newer, more specialized option for individuals with severe congenital inner ear malformations that prevent the use of conventional cochlear implants. This surgery is more invasive than cochlear implantation and is performed in collaboration with a neurosurgeon. In 2024, we became the first auditory implant program in Canada to successfully perform a pediatric auditory brainstem implant.

We are committed to providing the highest level of care and support for patients with hearing loss, offering a range of implant options tailored to meet individual needs.