IMPLANTABLE DEVICE

ASSESSMENT AND FITTING.

Pediatric hearing assessments conducted by an audiologist are evaluations aimed at determining the hearing ability of infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. 

These assessments are crucial for identifying any hearing impairments or disorders early on, as hearing plays a critical role in a child's speech, language, cognitive, and social development.

Pediatric hearing assessments may include a variety of tests and procedures tailored to the child's age, developmental stage, and ability to participate.
Here's an overview of the process:

Assessment and Candidacy Evaluation: The audiologist begins by conducting a comprehensive assessment to determine whether the individual is a suitable candidate for implantable hearing devices. This assessment typically includes a thorough evaluation of the individual's hearing loss, medical history, communication needs, and lifestyle factors.

For cochlear implants, candidacy evaluation may involve additional tests such as speech perception testing, imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI scans), and assessments of auditory nerve function.

Preoperative Counseling and Education: Before undergoing implantation surgery, the audiologist provides counseling and education to the individual and their family about the implantable device, the surgical procedure, and expectations for postoperative rehabilitation and follow-up care.

This counseling may include discussions about the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of the implantable device, as well as realistic expectations for outcomes and rehabilitation.

Surgical Coordination: Once candidacy is established, the audiologist collaborates with otolaryngologists (ENT surgeons) or other surgical specialists to coordinate the implantation procedure. This may involve scheduling preoperative consultations, arranging for surgical clearance, and providing guidance on preoperative preparations.

Postoperative Activation and Programming: Following implantation surgery, the audiologist is responsible for activating and programming the implantable device to optimize its performance for the individual's specific hearing needs.

For cochlear implants, this involves mapping or programming the device's speech processor to deliver electrical stimulation to the auditory nerve. The audiologist adjusts various parameters such as electrode stimulation levels, frequency allocations, and speech processing strategies based on the individual's unique auditory perception and comfort levels.

For bone-anchored hearing aids and middle ear implants, programming may involve adjusting device settings and coupling mechanisms to optimize sound transmission and audibility.

Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Care: After activation, the audiologist provides ongoing rehabilitation and support to help the individual adapt to using the implantable device effectively.

This may include auditory training, counseling on communication strategies, troubleshooting assistance, and periodic follow-up appointments to monitor progress, make adjustments, and address any concerns or issues that arise.

Implantable device assessment and fitting require specialized training and expertise in working with implantable hearing technology. Audiologists play a crucial role in every step of the process, from initial evaluation and candidacy determination to postoperative rehabilitation and long-term management, to ensure optimal outcomes for individuals with implantable devices.
Janse van Rensburg Inc. (previously known as Griesel and Janse van Rensburg Audiologists) is an established practice located in Centurion next to Netcare Unitas Hospital and serves a variety of clients from infants to adults.

We aim to provide innovative solutions for each client, catering to each person’s unique listening needs.
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012 664 5559
073 460 7382
Lifestyle Management Park, Unit 4, Suite 214
(Next to Unitas Hospital),
Clifton Avenue,
Lyttelton,
Centurion
Mon to Thurs - 08:00 to 17:00
Fri - 08:00 to 16:00
Sat & Sun - Closed
Public Holidays - Closed 
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