Anatomy-based fitting versus standard mapping of Cochlear Implants: A study on speech perception and hearing quality

Patients with cochlear implants (CI) often report moderate sound quality and limited hearing performance, especially in real-life situations with background noise. This study explores whether a customized mapping of frequency bands, known as anatomy-based fitting (ABF), could enhance sound quality and speech perception. Initially implanted with MED-EL Synchrony2 implants, participants were divided into two groups in a cross-over design. One group received the manufacturer's standard map (STD), while the other underwent ABF initially. After three months, participants switched mappings for an additional three months. Subsequently, all participants had both mappings for three months, enabling them to determine their preferred setting. Monosyllabic speech perception tests in quiet (FMS) and subjective hearing quality (SSQ questionnaire) were conducted at these intervals to assess the benefits of each mapping method. Out of 44 participants, 13 were categorized as dropouts, with a primary challenge being the difficulty in adapting to the change in frequency distribution. Preliminary results at the 3-month interval showed that the FMS median for STD group and ABF group was 55% (N=17) and 50% (N=14), respectively. The average SSQ quality score for the STD was 4,5 and 5,4 for the ABF group. 15 participants concluded the study, so far. While seven preferred the STD setting, eight preferred the ABF setting. The median FMS was equal in both groups (65%), SSQ scores were 4,8 and 6,2 for STD and ABF group, respectively. Preliminary results showed no clear advantage of ABF in speech perception scores at the different test intervals. However, a trend toward better sound quality scores in the ABF group was observed. More participants concluding the 9-month study endpoint are needed.

Funding information BMBF

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
19. April 2024