Musical Ear Syndrome: Prevalence and characteristics in cochlear implant bearers

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Neuroscience
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Musical Ear Syndrome (MES) is the perception of auditory musical sensations without an external stimulus.
• It is often associated with profound hearing loss.
• Prevalence and risk factors in cochlear implant (CI) patients require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence of MES in cochlear implant patients.
• To characterize the nature of MES experiences in this population.
• To identify potential risk factors associated with MES in CI users.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study analyzed adult cochlear implant patients (1993-2019).
• Data collected included the presence and characteristics of MES.
• Statistical analysis identified significant factors.

Main Results:

• 33% of 358 patients reported MES, occurring before, after, or both.
• Musical sensations were typically brief, instrumental, and frequent, with 11% finding them intolerable.
• Younger age was a significant risk factor; fatigue was a trigger. Implant type, etiology, and tinnitus were not risk factors.

Conclusions:

• MES is highly prevalent in cochlear implant patients, especially younger ones.
• Despite MES, patients reported satisfaction with CI function and auditory performance.
• Further research is needed to enhance understanding and management of MES.