The clinic offers comprehensive hearing evaluation, advanced cochlear implant procedures, and post-operative rehabilitation to improve hearing and quality of life

Medicover Hospital has launched a dedicated Cochlear Implant Clinic for early diagnosis and effective management of severe to profound hearing loss. The initiative provides a structured and comprehensive approach for children who are diagnosed with congenital deafness and are mute, that is, unable to speak, and also for adults who do not benefit from hearing aids, helping them improve their hearing and communication abilities. With advanced diagnostic tools, surgical expertise, and rehabilitation support, the clinic aims to ensure timely intervention and better outcomes, especially in children.

A 4-year-old Rohit Khanna (name changed) from Navi Mumbai  was brought to Medicover Hospital by his parents with concerns that he was unable to hear and had not developed speech like other children his age. A detailed evaluation was done, including BERA, which confirmed bilateral profound hearing loss, meaning the child was unable to perceive sounds necessary for normal speech development. The child had first been diagnosed with bilateral profound hearing loss two years ago at the age of 2. Understanding the importance of early hearing rehabilitation in children, the family was counselled regarding treatment options. For the family, the diagnosis was emotionally and financially overwhelming. Cochlear implantation, the most effective treatment for children with profound hearing loss, is a costly procedure, and the parents face significant financial constraints. With the support and guidance of our hospital team, the family was able to navigate these challenges with assistance from The Hans Foundation, which helped make the life-changing treatment possible. The child subsequently underwent right-sided cochlear implant surgery at our hospital. The procedure was successfully performed, marking a significant step toward giving the child access to the world of sound. In the coming months, the child will require regular intensive auditory training and dedicated speech therapy. The child now has the opportunity to hear, learn spoken language, and experience sounds for the first time, opening the door to improved communication, learning, and a brighter future. The newly launched clinic aims to ensure that more children like this receive timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and the opportunity for improved quality of life.

The clinic offers a range of services, including detailed hearing assessments such as OAE, BERA, and ASSR, along with hearing aid trials and candidacy evaluation. It also provides guidance to help patients and families choose the most suitable treatment options. For eligible patients, advanced cochlear implant procedures are supported by a thorough pre-operative evaluation, including CT and MRI. The clinic also focuses on post-operative programming (mapping) and speech and auditory rehabilitation to help patients adapt to the implant and improve hearing and communication outcomes. Early detection and timely intervention are especially important in children with congenital or early-onset hearing loss.

Dr Rajendra Waghela, Consultant ENT and Endoscopic Surgeon – Medicover Hospital, said, “Childhood and congenital hearing loss can be caused by genetic factors (inherited conditions), infections during pregnancy (like rubella or CMV), or complications at birth such as low oxygen or premature delivery. It may also result from ear infections or certain medications in early childhood. Hence, Hearing loss can affect communication, education, and overall quality of life. A cochlear implant is a life changing solution for individuals with severe hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids. We provide a complete evaluation to identify suitable candidates and guide families through every step of the process. Early intervention is critical, as timely treatment can greatly improve speech and language outcomes and help individuals lead independent and confident lives.”

Dr Rajendra Waghela further added, “A cochlear implant is not just a surgical procedure; it requires continuous support through post operative mapping and rehabilitation. Our clinic offers counselling, therapy, and regular follow-ups to ensure patients achieve the best hearing outcomes. We also assist families with information on financial support options, making advanced hearing care more accessible and manageable.”

“By offering complete hearing care under one roof, we aim to help patients hear better, communicate effectively,” concluded Sandip Joshi (Centre Head), Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.