Summary
Cochlear implantation (CI) delivers electrical stimulation to surviving auditory neurons through an intracochlear array. It provides hearing access but does not restore normal cochlear processing.
External microphone/processor and transmitter communicate with an implanted receiver/stimulator and electrode array. Benefit requires fitting, regular use and auditory rehabilitation.
More detail
The array maps higher frequencies towards the cochlear base and lower frequencies towards the apex, using the auditory system's tonotopic organisation.