Today, February 25th, marks the International Cochlear Implant Day, a significant occasion commemorating the first implantation performed in 1957 by the French doctors Djourno and Eyrès. This revolutionary medical advancement has transformed the lives of individuals with profound bilateral neurosensorial deafness, enabling them to regain the ability to hear. In this context, Cuba stands out with its successful National Cochlear Implant Program, boasting over 30 years of development.

Cochlear implantation is a surgery involving the placement of an electronic device to replace the function of the damaged inner ear. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sounds, cochlear implants work directly on the affected parts of the inner ear to provide auditory signals to the ear.

The National Cochlear Implant Program in Cuba is internationally recognized for its multidisciplinary, interinstitutional, and intersectoral approach. Additionally, it boasts highly trained specialists, cutting-edge technology, lifelong rehabilitation maintenance, and integration with family and school.

This comprehensive program encompasses everything from initial consultations to audiologic investigations, assessments of cognitive and language skills, group therapy, and family counseling. Key moments such as consultations, initial assessment, treatments in comfortable settings, and linguistic rehabilitation address the full spectrum of hearing recovery and language development in patients.

One of the key highlights of the Program is its prioritized focus on children with multiple disabilities, including deafblindness. The integration of family and school is considered essential for success.

For those wishing to begin treatment, they are urged to contact the Coordination and Processing Center of the Cuban Medical Services Distributor, S.A. via email at smc@smcsalud.cu.

By: MSc. Dra. Patricia Alonso Galbán
Specialist in Communications from CSMC, S.A.