What does the cochlear implantation procedure involve?

Cochlear implantation is a surgical procedure that places a thin electrode array inside the cochlea (inner ear) to directly stimulate the auditory nerve. An external sound processor, worn behind the ear, captures and converts sound into electrical signals transmitted to the internal implant. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2–4 hours. The external processor is fitted and activated approximately 4 weeks after surgery, allowing the brain to adapt to the new auditory signals.