cochlear implant, an electronic device that is surgically implanted into the cochlea of an individual with a severe to profound bilateral hearing loss. A transmitter placed outside the scalp sends signals to a receiver under the scalp, which in turn transmits an electrical code to the auditory nerve. A microphone is located behind the ear to collect the sound waves that are transmitted through a microprocessor. The microprocessor analyzes the sound waves and relays data back to electrodes in the implanted device. The patient receives electrical pulses that are translated into sound vibrations that can be distinguished as neural sensations. Although the implant does not transmit speech in the same manner as it would be perceived by a person with normal hearing, it allows the individual to perceive and distinguish sounds that would not otherwise be audible to him or her and to use those sounds along with other environmental cues to improve communication. Also called cochlear prosthesis.
