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Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
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Speech recognition with hearing aids for 10 standard audiograms : English version
1Audiology Department and CI Centre CICERO Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic, University Hospital Erlangen, Waldstraße 1, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
HNO
|March 27, 2020
Summary
Hearing aid outcomes vary. This study found that aided speech perception depends on hearing loss type and maximum word recognition score, suggesting adjusted expectations for hearing aid provision.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Hearing Science
- Speech Perception
Background:
- Improving speech perception in quiet is a primary goal of hearing aid fitting, but outcomes are highly variable.
- Understanding factors influencing aided speech perception is crucial for effective hearing rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between hearing loss characteristics (audiogram type and degree), maximum word recognition score, and aided speech perception.
- To determine how audiogram type influences the efficiency of hearing aid provision.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of pure tone and speech audiometric data from 740 ears in 370 patients undergoing hearing aid evaluation.
- Analysis of maximum word recognition score (WRSmax) and aided monosyllabic speech recognition score (WRS65(HA)) across 10 standard audiogram types.
Main Results:
- Aided speech recognition scores (WRS65(HA)) were 10-20 percentage points lower than maximum word recognition scores (WRSmax).
- The difference between WRS65(HA) and WRSmax was larger for flat and moderately sloping audiograms compared to steep-sloping ones.
- The ratio WRS65(HA)/WRSmax serves as an efficiency factor for hearing aid provision.
Conclusions:
- Hearing aid provision expectations should be adjusted based on the patient's maximum word recognition score and audiogram type.
- Degree of hearing loss and derived quality measures are important considerations for setting realistic hearing aid outcomes.
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