Comparing Comfort and Sound Quality of 3D-Printed and Standard Ear Tips in Adults with Hearing Loss

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether 3D-printed ear tips perform as well as or better than standard ear tips in terms of sound quality, comfort, and fit for individuals with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The study aims to address challenges in affordable and timely hearing healthcare by comparing the effectiveness, cost, and production time of these ear tips. Participants will receive behind-the-ear BTE hearing aids fitted with three different types of customized ear tips made from biocompatible resin or flexible resin. Each ear tip will be worn for one week in a randomized order, either starting with third-party manufactured, flexible resin, or resin ear tips. Hearing aids will be programmed to match participants hearing loss from 250-8000Hz, and a short washout period will follow testing with each ear tip group. During the study, participants will complete comfort questionnaires and undergo real ear measurements after each week of ear tip use. Researchers will also track the cost and time required to produce each type of ear tip. The study will last approximately three weeks per participant, covering the use of all three ear tips and follow-up assessments to evaluate comfort and sound quality.

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