Janine Roebuck, a 72-year-old opera singer from London, has hailed her double cochlear implants surgery as 'life-changing' after restoring her hearing. The surgery, which involved fitting her with two cochlear implants, has given her a new lease on life and the potential to perform on stage again.
According to the NHS, cochlear implants are a type of surgical implant that can help people with severe hearing loss to hear sounds and speech more clearly. The procedure involves inserting an implant under the skin behind the ear, which converts sound into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain.
Janine Roebuck, who had been hiding her deafness for over 30 years, was diagnosed with severe hearing loss in her 40s. However, she continued to perform on stage, relying on lip-reading and her own musical abilities to compensate for her lack of hearing. The cochlear implants surgery, which took place in a London hospital, has given her a new sense of independence and confidence.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), cochlear implants are a recommended treatment for patients with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss in one or both ears. The organisation states that the implants can significantly improve hearing and communication skills in patients, especially in noisy environments.
The cochlear implants surgery is not without risks and complications, however. The NHS estimates that the procedure has a 90-95% success rate in restoring hearing, but patients may experience side effects such as facial numbness, dizziness, and ear pain. It is essential for patients to consult their GP or call NHS 111 for further information and to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the surgery.
As Janine Roebuck's story highlights, cochlear implants surgery can be a 'life-changing' experience for patients with severe hearing loss. The surgery could become a new norm for thousands of NHS patients, and it is essential for the healthcare system to continue investing in this treatment to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.