Ultra-high-frequency ultrasonic external acoustic stimulation for tinnitus relief: a method for patient selection

We proposed a method for patient selection and application of criteria for predicting success with bone-conduction external acoustic stimulation using high-audio-frequency sound in the ranges of 10-20 kHz and 20-26 kHz for individuals with subjective idiopathic tinnitus (SIT) of the severe disabling type. Ultra-high-frequency (UHF) stimulation for tinnitus relief has been found to be most effective when residual neuronal function exists in the acoustic ranges of 10-14 kHz, with thresholds no greater than 40-50 dB sound pressure level (SPL). Ultrasonic (US) acoustic stimulation is recommended for patients with audiometric thresholds greater than 50-60 dB SPL for frequencies of 10-14 kHz. Fifty-two consecutive patients seen for the primary complaint of SIT of the severe disabling type received a trial of either UHF or US bone-conduction acoustic stimulation. Tinnitus relief was reported in 22 of the 52 patients. The application of criteria for patient selection predicted tinnitus relief in 20 of the 22.