Diving with a cochlear implant.

[tna9001]

Hello, All.

I'm wondering if anyone here has any experience diving with a CI? I just got implanted last month and I'm planning to do a Dive Master internship as soon as the COVID-19 allows. I've reached out to my ENT and Audiologist but I don't expect to hear from them for a while as their offices are closed. I realize my ENT will be the one to make the decision but I'm hoping to get some first-hand info.

Thank you,

Tyler

 

[DogDiver]

What did DAN say when you asked them.

 

[Saniflush]

Hello, All.

I'm wondering if anyone here has any experience diving with a CI? I just got implanted last month and I'm planning to do a Dive Master internship as soon as the COVID-19 allows. I've reached out to my ENT and Audiologist but I don't expect to hear from them for a while as their offices are closed. I realize my ENT will be the one to make the decision but I'm hoping to get some first-hand info.

Thank you,

Tyler

I believe I have seen this topic addressed on here. If I am remembering correctly then you are capable of diving with a CI but I also believe I remember that it comes with some constrictions regarding depth. Your ENT guy will be your best source of information on this when you can get a hold of them.

 

[tna9001]

I believe I have seen this topic addressed on here. If I am remembering correctly then you are capable of diving with a CI but I also believe I remember that it comes with some constrictions regarding depth. Your ENT guy will be your best source of information on this when you can get a hold of them.

That's encouraging, thank you!

 

[tna9001]

What did DAN say when you asked them.

I haven't spoken to them yet, I did find this on their: website:DAN | Medical Frequently Asked Questions

I'm hoping to find some first hand experience.

 

[gert7to3]

Here's a previous thread about CI's. The second page is where the better discussion occurs. I have met one diver who has a CI, but just in passing on a boat.

Diving with a Cochlear Implant?

 

[tna9001]

Here's a previous thread about CI's. The second page is where the better discussion occurs. I have met one diver who has a CI, but just in passing on a boat.

Diving with a Cochlear Implant?

Thank you so much! I guess my search/google skills need some work!

 

[gert7to3]

tna...,
There is search box for ScubaBoard as well.

Not to be advertising stuff, I do use a Pro-Ear mask and Doc's Pro Plugs while diving. My problem is a delicate tympanoplasty. I have a Cochlear BAHA for my right ear.

 

[tna9001]

tna...,
There is search box for ScubaBoard as well.

Not to be advertising stuff, I do use a Pro-Ear mask and Doc's Pro Plugs while diving. My problem is a delicate tympanoplasty. I have a Cochlear BAHA for my right ear.

Thank you for that. Have you observed any depth limits due to your CI?

 

[tna9001]

I've heard back from Med EL, the manufacture of the CI I've got:

I've now heard back from our experts and I do have good news for you: SCUBA diving with your MED-EL CI is fine, as long as you remove the external audio processor.

This statement is taken from the Instructions for Use for our SYNCHRONY cochlear implant:

"Most water sports should not cause any problem as long as the external parts of the implant system are removed. If headgear or face mask are worn, care must be taken to ensure that the strap is not too tight over the site of the implant. In case the MED‑EL implant user wants to dive, the user should consult an experienced physician about the possibilities and personal restrictions when performing water sports, especially in the case of SCUBA diving. The implant is robust against pressure changes which occur during SCUBA diving to depths up to 50 m (165 ft)."