Abstract
BackgroundThere is a significant group of elderly patients whose hearing impairment is characterized by normal or slightly elevated thresholds in the low and mid frequency bands (below 1500 Hz) with nearly total deafness in the high frequency range. These patients very often remain beyond the scope of effective treatment by hearing aids.Case ReportThis study presents the case of a 75-year-old patient with good hearing in the range 125–1500 Hz and deafness at other frequencies. An implant was used to restore hearing at high frequencies, while preserving low and mid frequency acoustic hearing in the implanted ear. This can be described as electro-natural stimulation (ENS) of the inner ear.ConclusionsThe results demonstrate that low and mid frequency hearing (up to 1500 Hz) can be preserved using the round window surgical technique. A substantial improvement in speech discrimination was also observed when electrical stimulation on one side was combined with acoustic stimulation on both sides. There is scope to extend qualifying criteria for cochlear implantation to include elderly patients suitable for ENS.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
