Determining fitting ranges of various bone conduction hearing aids

D. C. P. B. M. van Barneveld, H. J. W. Kok, J. F. P. Noten, A. J. Bosman, A. F. M. Snik*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: To define fitting ranges for nine bone conduction devices (BCDs) over different frequencies based on the device's maximum power output (MPO) and to validate the assessment of MPO of BCDs in the ear canal. Background: Maximum power output (MPO) is an important characteristic when fitting BCDs. It is the highest output level a device can deliver and is one of the major determinants of a device's fitting range. A skull simulator can be used to verify MPO of percutaneous BCDs. No such simulator is available for active and passive transcutaneous devices. Design: The MPO of nine different BCDs was assessed either by real-ear measurements and/ or with skull simulator measurements. Main outcome measures: MPO and cross-validation of the methods using the Bland-Altman method. Results: Percutaneous BCDs have higher MPO levels compared to active and passive transcutaneous devices. This results in awide dynamic range of hearing for percutaneous devices. Moreover, the assessment ofMPOby real-ear measurements was validated. Conclusion: Based on MPO data, fitting ranges were defined for nine BCDs over seven frequencies.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)68-75
Number of pages8
JournalClinical Otolaryngology
Volume43
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2018

Keywords

  • HOSPITAL ANXIETY
  • DEPRESSION SCALE
  • DEAF ADULTS
  • INDIVIDUALS
  • VALIDATION
  • ILLNESS
  • HEALTH
  • IMPACT

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