Question:
Hi, during the removal of a brain meningioma, the surgeon cut my hearing nerve on the left side, I was wondering, is there a procedure that can be done to restore the hearing in my left ear.
Answer:
Loss of the hearing nerve (cochlear portion of the 8th cranial nerve) results in profound sensorineural hearing loss. Standard hearing aids cannot overcome this loss. However, there are new technologies that exist to re-route the sound from the deafened side to the functional side. There are several such technologies that may assist you.
We offer all of these options and sometimes, it is best to try each out to know what to expect.
Thank you for your question! I hope this clears things up.
Neil Sperling, MD
New York Otolaryngology Group
36A East 36th Street
New York, New York
Associate Professor, Dept of Otolaryngology SUNY Downstate Brooklyn, New York
Frequently Asked Questions
When the cochlear portion of the 8th cranial nerve is cut, it results in profound sensorineural hearing loss, which cannot be corrected with standard hearing aids. However, some advanced technologies can route sound from the deafened ear to the functioning ear to improve hearing.
There are several sound rerouting technologies designed to send sound from the deafened side to the functioning ear. These include various bone conduction devices and contralateral routing of signal (CROS) hearing aids that can assist individuals with profound sensorineural hearing loss.
No, standard hearing aids amplify sound but cannot overcome the hearing loss caused by damage to the cochlear nerve. Alternative technologies that reroute sound are required in such cases.
Yes, it is often beneficial to try multiple hearing devices or technologies to determine which one provides the best hearing experience, as individual results may vary.
Specialized otolaryngology groups, such as the New York Otolaryngology Group, offer evaluations and options for hearing restoration using advanced technologies. Consultation with an expert is recommended to explore suitable solutions.
