Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
04:32
Sound Source Localization Testing in Single-sided Deafness Following Bone Conduction Intervention
Published on: December 20, 2024
The SoundBite hearing system: patient-assessed safety and benefit study
Richard K Gurgel1, Clough Shelton
1Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.A.
The Laryngoscope
|July 17, 2013
Summary
The SoundBite hearing prosthesis demonstrated significant improvements in communication and hearing in noisy environments for patients with single-sided deafness. High patient satisfaction was reported, with acoustic feedback being the most common issue, often resolved with adjustments.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Single-sided deafness (SSD) presents significant challenges in sound localization and speech comprehension.
- Traditional bone conduction devices often require surgical implantation.
- The SoundBite offers a non-surgical alternative for bone conduction hearing rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the SoundBite hearing prosthesis over a 6-month period in patients with SSD.
- To assess patient satisfaction and auditory benefit using validated questionnaires.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, multisite, nonrandomized study design.
- 34 patients with SSD were enrolled and fitted with the SoundBite device.
- Outcomes were assessed via audiometric profiles and the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in APHAB scores for ease of communication, background noise, reverberation, and global benefit (P < 0.001).
- High patient-reported auditory benefit and overall satisfaction.
- One case of superficial mouth sore (resolved) and acoustic feedback in 35% of patients, with resolution after adjustment in 6 cases.
Conclusions:
- The SoundBite is a safe and effective non-surgical bone conduction hearing prosthesis for SSD.
- It provides significant auditory benefits and high patient satisfaction.
- Acoustic feedback is manageable with proper fitting and adjustments.
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