Maintaining cochlear implants

Perform a daily check to identify any issues with the cochlear implants. Many problems are simple to fix.

The implant team will show you how to check the external part of the implants – the sound processor and transmitter coil. They’ll also give you a set of spare coils you can change at home. When you use your replacement parts, inform the implant team so they can give you new spares. They’ll probably ask you to send the faulty part back, so don’t throw it away unless you’ve been told to do so.

If you notice a problem during your daily check, contact the cochlear implant centre for advice.

Check settings and controls

Make sure the settings match what the implant team recommended. If they do not, reset them or take the system back to the centre.

Check batteries and battery contacts

• Make sure you’re using the battery type recommended by the implant team.
• Make sure the batteries are inserted correctly.
• Check battery power levels. If the sound processor uses button batteries, there may be a tester available to check battery levels. For rechargeable batteries, look for an indicator light on the processor which signals when the battery is low or needs recharging – this feature may vary depending on the implant model.
• Check that the battery contacts are clean and not rusty. If they are damaged, contact the implant centre.

Learn about battery safety.

Check leads

• Inspect the leads for signs of wear or damage. If you're unsure, replace them. Your implant team should have shown you how to replace the leads, but you can also find instructions or videos on the manufacturer's website.
• Make sure the connection between the sound processor and transmitter coil is secure. If the connection is loose, contact the implant centre.
• Check that there are no cracks or breaks in the transmitter coil casing.

Listening check

Parents and carers should do a daily listening check to make sure the device is working as it should be. You can use either a signal check device or listening earphones, depending on the cochlear implant. The implant team will show you how to do a listening check.

Some types of listening earphones can also help you assess sound quality. Check that the sound is clear and at a comfortable level, without crackling, static or distortion. If you hear any issues, contact the implant centre.

Some processors have a built-in self-check function. Be sure to ask your implant team how it works and what to do if it detects a problem.

Each cochlear implant manufacturer has its own guidelines on how to clean the sound processor. For light dirt, most recommend simply wiping with a dry cloth.

Check with the implant team or manufacturer for specific cleaning instructions.

Batteries need to be replaced regularly, typically between once a day and once a week, depending on how the wearer uses the device. Battery life can vary with different settings.

Rechargeable batteries should be recharged overnight or when not in use.

Important: Batteries are extremely dangerous if swallowed. If you think a child may have swallowed a battery or inserted it into their ear or nose, take them to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department. Bring the battery packaging with you so that the doctors know what they’re dealing with.

More about battery safety.

Most sound processors come with a ‘dry box’ to remove light moisture, such as sweat or condensation. Be sure to put the processor in the dry box overnight.

Dry boxes can be electronic or non-electronic. Non-electronic dry boxes have moisture-absorbing pellets or tabs.

Always use the dry box that comes with the cochlear implant, as other brands may not be suitable.

If the sound processor becomes fully submerged in water, contact the implant centre for advice.

Find out more about waterproof kits for implants.

NHS cochlear implants

NHS cochlear implants are provided on permanent loan and remain the property of the NHS. You’re responsible for taking good care of them.

The implant team will give you accessories and advice to help secure the processors and prevent loss.

If the processors are lost or broken, or if the internal implant is damaged, your implant team will guide you on what to do.

The NHS may charge for lost or damaged equipment in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but charges are generally waived for children’s and teenager's sound processors. Check with your implant centre if charges would apply for lost processors and how much these would be. Families receiving certain welfare benefits are exempt. Since each processor costs the NHS over £5,500, it’s important to keep them safe.

Tips for parents: For some modern sound processors, you can use a smartphone app to track it using GPS. This can be especially useful if your child has a habit of removing their processors. The implant service can help you set up the app on your smartphone if it's available for your child's implants.

Private cochlear implants

If you have private cochlear implants, you’re responsible for all repair and replacement costs. If they are insured, contact your insurance company to file a claim.

New devices and improved technology typically become available every 5 years. Your implant centre will notify you when it's time for an upgrade. However, you'll usually only be offered a new or upgraded device through the NHS if it provides features not available on your current device.

NHS sound processors cannot be insured as they are NHS property. However, some people choose to insure against the risk of being charged for loss or damage. Most household insurance policies cover this – just be sure to list the sound processors as a named item.

If you’re travelling abroad, you can purchase travel insurance to cover the processor and other external implant parts. Some manufacturers offer a holiday loan kit with spare processors in case they get damaged or lost while travelling.