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Reversing Synchronized Brain Circuits Using Targeted Auditory-Somatosensory Stimulation to Treat Phantom Percepts: A
Gerilyn R Jones1, David T Martel1, Travis L Riffle1
1Kresge Hearing Research Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
JAMA Network Open
|June 2, 2023
Summary
Bisensory (auditory and somatosensory) stimulation effectively reduced tinnitus symptoms, including loudness and functional impact, in adults with somatic tinnitus. This treatment offers a prolonged therapeutic effect, suggesting a new avenue for tinnitus management.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Audiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Altered dorsal cochlear nucleus circuitry is observed in animal models of tinnitus.
- Bisensory (auditory and somatosensory) stimuli show potential to reverse neural patterns and alleviate tinnitus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm and extend pilot study findings on the efficacy of bisensory stimulation.
- To evaluate bisensory stimulation in a larger clinical trial with extended duration.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, crossover, randomized clinical trial involving 99 adults with bothersome somatic tinnitus.
- Participants received either bisensory or auditory-only treatment for 6 weeks, followed by a crossover and washout periods.
- Primary endpoints included changes in Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) score and tinnitus loudness.
Main Results:
- Bisensory treatment significantly decreased TFI scores (ITT: -12.0 points, P<.001) and tinnitus loudness (ITT: -5.8 dB SL, P=.08 at week 6; -10.9 dB SL, P=.001 at week 12).
- Auditory-only treatment showed minimal effect.
- Symptom reduction persisted into the washout phase, indicating a prolonged treatment effect.
Conclusions:
- Precisely timed bisensory treatment is effective for adults with somatic tinnitus.
- Extended treatment duration can lead to prolonged reduction in tinnitus symptoms.
- This approach, derived from animal models, offers a promising therapeutic strategy for tinnitus.
