Comparing Comfort and Effectiveness of 3D-Printed Versus Standard Ear Tips for Adults with Normal Hearing

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether 3D-printed ear tips work as well or better than conventional ear tips for people with normal hearing. The study focuses on comparing sound quality, comfort, fit, production time, and cost. This research addresses challenges in hearing healthcare access due to high expenses and long wait times. It is an interventional study sponsored by the University of Arizona. Participants will test three types of customized ear tips made from biocompatible resin and flexible resin, including those made in-house and by a third-party manufacturer. Hearing aids programmed to simulate mild hearing loss will be fitted with these ear tips, and each type will be worn for about 20 minutes with breaks between tests. The study uses a randomized design without masking. During the study, participants will undergo assessments such as real ear measurements and fill out questionnaires about ear comfort at the second listening session. Researchers will also record the cost and time needed to produce each ear tip type before this session. The total participation involves multiple appointments focused on testing and feedback to understand how each ear tip performs.

Effectiveness Comparison of 3D-Printed and Conventional Ear Tip Comfort in Individuals With Hearing in the Normal Range