Cochlear Implants in the Elderly - Challenges & Solutions w/ Dr. Cameron Wick | ENT Ep. 261

Only 7–10% of patients who qualify for cochlear implants actually receive one. Why are so many older adults missing out on life-changing hearing care? In this episode of the BackTable ENT Podcast, guest hosts Dr. Joe Walter Kutz and Dr. Brandon Isaacson are joined by Dr. Cameron Wick of University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center to discuss cochlear implantation in the elderly population. --- SYNPOSIS The doctors explore common barriers to cochlear implantation, persistently low referral rates, and the substantial benefits these devices can offer older adults. Dr. Wick shares insights from his recent study on patients in their 80s and 90s, highlighting meaningful improvements in speech perception and overall quality of life. The conversation also addresses surgical considerations, postoperative care, the importance of timely intervention, and updated Medicare guidelines. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 02:52 - Risks and Benefits of CI in Older Adults 11:57 - Handling Anticoagulation During CI Surgery 13:59 - Post-Surgery Expectations and Balance Issues 16:35 - Next Day Activation and Surgical Considerations 19:17 - Assessing Patient Suitability for Cochlear Implants 22:45 - Setting Patient Expectations for Cochlear Implants 23:39 - Barriers to Cochlear Implant Access 28:07 - Importance of Early Identification and Referral 31:47 - Postoperative Rehabilitation and Patient Support 39:30 - Concluding Thoughts and Acknowledgements --- RESOURCES J. Walter Kutz, M.D. https://utswmed.org/doctors/joe-kutz/ Brandon Isaacson, M.D. https://utswmed.org/doctors/brandon-i... Cameron Wick, MD https://www.uhhospitals.org/doctors/W... --- The BackTable ENT Podcast is a resource for otolaryngologists to learn tips, techniques, and practical advice on all things ear, nose, and throat. Tune in to the BackTable ENT Podcast every week for candid conversations about rhinology, laryngology, otology, and head and neck surgery. Get notified when new episodes drop! Subscribe to the BackTable ENT Podcast on your go-to podcast platform, and follow us on your social media platform of choice for regular otolaryngology updates. ► https://www.backtable.com/shows/ent/s... #ENT261 #cochlearimplant #hearingloss #hearing