Study of Speech Understanding Using Tonotopy-based Fitting Compared to Conventional Settings in Adults With Cochlear Implants Used for 6 Months

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating speech recognition in noise using two different cochlear implant fitting methods tonotopic fitting FS4T and conventional non-tonotopic fitting FS4noT. The study focuses on adults who have used a MED-EL cochlear implant with the FS4noT strategy for 6 months. This research aims to understand if tonotopic fitting, which adjusts frequencies based on individual cochlear anatomy, improves speech perception compared to the standard fitting. Participants will experience a tonotopic fitting FS4T setting for 6 weeks after being implanted for 6 months with the conventional FS4noT setting. The FS4T fitting uses CT scan data and 3D reconstruction to tailor the cochlear implant frequencies to the patients specific cochlear structure. The study compares speech recognition in noise and quiet, as well as subjective auditory spatial perception, between the two fitting methods. During the study, participants speech recognition abilities in noise and quiet will be assessed 6 weeks after starting FS4T fitting. Subjective auditory spatial perception will be evaluated at the beginning of FS4T fitting and again after 6 weeks. The study is prospective, open, and cross-sectional, with all evaluations focusing on the effects of the tonotopic fitting compared to the conventional one. Participants will be monitored for changes in hearing performance during the 6-week FS4T period.

Speech Perception of a Tonotopy-based Fitting for Cochlear Implant Recipients for 6 Months With Conventional Setting