Dental X rays found to have no effect on hearing aids

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Radiology
• Audiology

Background:

• Hearing devices are commonly used by patients undergoing medical imaging.
• The potential impact of radiation exposure on electronic hearing devices is not fully understood.
• Manufacturers have varying recommendations regarding device use during radiographic procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of diagnostic radiation exposure on behind-the-ear hearing devices.
• To determine if radiation exposure causes physical or functional changes in hearing aids.
• To inform clinical practice and patient recommendations regarding hearing aid use during X-rays.

Main Methods:

• Two behind-the-ear hearing devices from different manufacturers were tested.
• Devices were exposed to 21 radiation doses (90kVp, 15mA) with cumulative doses ranging from 5.465 to 5.516 R.
• Control devices had volume off; test devices had volume fully on. Post-exposure analysis assessed for changes.

Main Results:

• Both manufacturers reported no observable changes in their hearing devices after radiation exposure.
• A third company's independent testing also indicated no changes in their units.
• Despite no observed damage, one vendor advised removal for legal and safety reasons.

Conclusions:

• Behind-the-ear hearing devices appear resilient to diagnostic levels of radiation exposure.
• Manufacturers recommend removing hearing aids before radiographic examinations due to potential, albeit rare, risks and legal considerations.
• Further research may be warranted to explore long-term effects or different radiation types.