Man regains hearing after two decades with skull implant
Man regains hearing after 20 years with new implant surgery
A 46-year-old man named Yıldırım, who had congenital hearing loss due to poor middle ear structure, external auditory canal, and ear development, had lost hope of hearing after numerous unsuccessful surgeries from the age of 5 to 26. However, thanks to his wife Güler Yıldırım’s persistent research, he found a solution at the Health Sciences University Ankara Atatürk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital.
After undergoing examinations at the hospital, Yıldırım was informed that his hearing loss could be corrected with an implant placed inside the bone behind the ear, using the Bone Anchored Hearing Aid surgery performed in some European countries and the USA. Despite initial doubts, Yıldırım decided to undergo the surgery and successfully regained his ability to hear.
Professor Dr. Davut Akduman, an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Diseases Specialist at the hospital, who performed the surgery, explained that Yıldırım’s hearing loss was due to underdevelopment in the middle ear structure, ear, and external auditory canal. He stated that the surgery was successful and that with further treatment, Yıldırım would be able to hear almost completely.
Akduman emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for hearing loss, especially in children. He mentioned that language development, communication skills, and academic success are directly related to hearing ability, making it crucial for families to address any hearing issues early on.
Yıldırım expressed his joy at being able to hear again and shared his excitement for the completion of the device installation. He mentioned how his hearing loss had affected his interactions with his children and his academic performance in the past. His wife, Güler Yıldırım, also expressed happiness at the success of the surgery and the impact it had on their family dynamics.
Overall, Yıldırım’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of early intervention in treating hearing loss and the life-changing impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones.
