Experience of uni- and bilateral cochlear implant users with a microphone positioned in the pinna

Abstract

Cochlear implant systems use different microphone positions and characteristics, none of which provide sound detection as normal hearing listeners experience it. The T-Mic, a microphone located in the pinna, close to the outer ear canal and thus taking advantage of some favourable outer ear properties, was developed in order to better mimic natural hearing. The T-Mic has been assessed by eight unilaterally implanted users. Sound quality, wearing comfort and ease of listening in different situations were evaluated by a questionnaire. The results highlight several advantages: easier listening in group conversation as well as in background noise, as noise from the rear is further attenuated. Telephone use is enhanced without further accessories since the sound is conducted via a sealed volume between telephone receiver and the outer ear canal. Speech perception measured over the telephone shows the T-Mic is comparable to direct coupling via the telephone adapter. For bilaterally implanted subjects, the T-Mic offers superior directional hearing compared to the forward facing BTE microphone; the lower error is being found for the T-Mic. It appears that the new T-Mic enables CI users to benefit from the characteristics of the pinna and to be both comfortable and practical for everyday use.