Cochlear Implant Program
Cochlear Implants

Helping children with sensorineural hearing loss connect and thrive through advanced, personalized care.

AppointmentsCall Us to ScheduleDirect Call513-636-4236

Cochlear Implant Care for Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Built Around Your Child

Learning your child has sensorineural hearing loss (inner ear hearing loss) can feel overwhelming. You may have questions about his or her future: communication, devices and surgery. Our Cochlear Implant Program is here to guide you with clear answers and steady support.

We care for children with sensorineural hearing loss or auditory neuropathy who can benefit from implantable technology. Children with medical and developmental conditions can benefit from our personalized approach and a cochlear implant. Each year, about 100 children receive care through our program. We offer cochlear implants, auditory brainstem implants and implantable bone conduction devices. In 2024, we celebrated our 1,000th cochlear implant—an important milestone for our program and the families we serve.

Why Choose Cincinnati Children’s Cochlear Implant Program?

Innovative treatments and research including gene therapy clinical trials and robotic-assisted surgery.
Team-based care with specialists in audiology, ENT, speech pathology and developmental and behavioral pediatrics working together.
Dedicated coordinator who guides your family from referral through surgery and follow-up.
Proven volumes and outcomes backed by more than 1,000 cochlear implants performed.

Expertise and Advanced Treatment for Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Innovative Surgical Technology

We were the first pediatric hospital to use robotic-assisted cochlear implant surgery with the iotaSOFT® Insertion System. This advanced approach allows for precise implant placement and supports safe, consistent results. We also offer gene therapy clinical trials, giving families access to new treatment options that are not widely available.

Experienced, High-Volume Program

In 2024, we reached a major milestone—1,000 cochlear implants performed. Higher volumes support strong outcomes and ongoing growth. Our experience allows us to care for children with both common and complex hearing conditions.

Coordinated, Team-Based Care

Your child’s care includes a team-based approach with audiologists, ENT surgeons, speech-language pathologists, social workers and developmental specialists. We create one clear plan so you are not left managing separate appointments alone.

A dedicated coordinator receives referrals and supports your family through evaluation, surgery and follow-up. Some families continue working with the same coordinator after implantation for added support.

Personalized Plans for Every Child

No two children hear—or learn—the same way. We adjust each treatment plan based on your child’s hearing level, communication goals and overall development. Our goal is simple: help your child build the strongest listening and language skills possible.

The field of audiology is constantly changing, and there are many new treatments that can change a child's life. Watching a child hear for the first time, say their first word, and succeed in the classroom and life inspired me to become an audiologist.

Maggie Kettler, AuD

Senior Clinical Director, Division of Audiology

What to Expect

Cochlear Implant ProgramCochlear Implants