Actively Recruiting
Effectiveness Comparison of 3D-Printed and Conventional Ear Tip Comfort in Individuals With Hearing Loss
Led by University of Arizona · Updated on 2026-05-01
32
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
1 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
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.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effectiveness Comparison of 3D-Printed and Conventional Ear Tip Comfort in Individuals With Hearing Loss
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Bilateral, symmetric sensorineural hearing loss ranging from normal to severe
- Normal ear canals and eardrums with aerated middle ear on both sides
- English speaking
You will not qualify if you...
- History of extensive or current outer or middle ear problems
- History of extensive outer or middle ear surgery
- History of neurological or cognitive disorders
- Current active ear infection
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 - Approximately 3 to 4 weeks
Participants will wear three different types of customized ear tips with their hearing aids, each for 1 week in a crossover design. Hearing aids will be programmed to fit their hearing loss. A short washout period will follow completion of testing with each ear tip group.
Weekly visits for up to 4 weeks
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
The University of Arizona Hearing Clinic
Tucson, Arizona, United States, 85721
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
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here