Different treatment protocols for moderate idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Audiology
• Hyperbaric Medicine

Background:

• Idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) presents a therapeutic challenge due to its unclear origins.
• Corticosteroids and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) are recognized treatments, with growing evidence supporting HBO2's efficacy.
• Treatment success for ISSNHL is influenced by factors including symptom onset-to-treatment interval, hearing loss severity, and audiogram characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of different treatment modalities for moderate idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss.
• To evaluate the impact of corticosteroid therapy, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy, and combination therapy on hearing recovery in ISSNHL patients.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 56 patients diagnosed with moderate ISSNHL.
• Patients were categorized into three groups: corticosteroid-only, corticosteroid + HBO2 (combination), and HBO2-only.
• All participants received concurrent intravenous vasodilator treatment, with hearing levels assessed before and after intervention.

Main Results:

• All treatment groups demonstrated an effective recovery rate exceeding 50%, with an average hearing gain of 17.38 decibels (dB).
• Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) monotherapy exhibited a higher recovery rate compared to other groups.
• Combination therapy involving corticosteroids and HBO2 did not result in a significantly elevated recovery rate compared to monotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy is an effective treatment for idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL).
• While combination therapy with corticosteroids does not offer additional benefits, HBO2 monotherapy shows promising results.
• Further research into optimal ISSNHL treatment protocols, particularly regarding HBO2, is warranted.