Actively Recruiting
Effectiveness Comparison of 3D-Printed and Conventional Ear Tip Comfort in Individuals With Hearing in the Normal Range
Led by University of Arizona · Updated on 2026-05-01
30
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
3 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
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.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effectiveness Comparison of 3D-Printed and Conventional Ear Tip Comfort in Individuals With Hearing in the Normal Range
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Normal hearing thresholds (less than 25 dB HL) at octave frequencies from 250 to 8000 Hz
- Normal otoscopy with patent ear canals, normal eardrums, and aerated middle ears on both sides
- English speaking
- Age between 18 and 89 years
You will not qualify if you...
- History of extensive or current outer or middle ear pathology
- History of extensive outer or middle ear surgery
- History of neurological or cognitive disorder
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants will test hearing aids fitted with three different types of customized ear tips. Each ear tip group will be worn for a total of 20 minutes, with a short washout period between tests.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
The University of Arizona Hearing Clinic
Tucson, Arizona, United States, 85719
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
B
Bryan Wong, AuD, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
CROSSOVER
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
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