Relationship between Expectations and Satisfaction for Baha Implant System in Patients with Single-Sided Deafness

Abstract

The Baha auditory osseointegrated implant system is gaining clinical acceptance as an alternative treatment option for patients with single-sided deafness (SSD). As satisfaction is related to expectations, if postfitting performance with the Baha matches or exceeds initial expectations, the patient may consider this management a success and have satisfaction with treatment outcome. In contrast, unrealistically high preoperative expectations for this management approach may result in dissatisfaction if performance falls short after the sound processor is fitted. The present study explores the relationship between prefitting expectations and postfitting satisfaction in a sample of 10 patients with acquired unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The Expected Consequences of Hearing Aid Ownership (ECHO) questionnaire was administered before fitting the Baha, and its companion questionnaire, namely the Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life (SADL), was administered at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 months postfitting. No significant differences were observed between the ECHO and SADL administrations. Scatter plots were generated to examine the relationship between expectations and satisfaction. Overall, patients were more satisfied with Baha use than initially expected, and satisfaction was maintained over an 18-month period. Establishment of initial realistic expectations and ongoing counseling are highlighted as essential components of the rehabilitation process when using Baha implantable technology in the management of patients with SSD.