One-Year Follow-Up in Children with Conductive Hearing Loss Using ADHEAR.

BACKGROUND: The ADHEAR™ system (MED-EL, Innsbruck, Austria) is a nonsurgical bone conduction device (BCD) to treat conductive hearing loss (CHL) and single-sided deafness. In contrast to the nonsurgical alternatives on headbands or spectacle frames, the audio processor of ADHEAR is placed retroauricularly on an adhesive adapter. The published evidence on the performance of this system is limited to studies with a trial period of 2-8 weeks. OBJECTIVE: This study assesses audiological and subjective outcomes over a period of 12 months, on patients with congenital aural atresia (CAA) using the ADHEAR hearing system. METHOD: Fifteen children (mean age: 9.4 ± 4 years; range: 5-16 years) diagnosed with CAA (7 uni/8 bilateral) were included in this prospective, observational, repeated-measures study. Each subject used ADHEAR for 1 year, and the performance was evaluated after 1, 6, and 12 months. Free-field audiometry and speech discrimination tests were performed, and hearing-, general health- and device-specific questionnaires were used. RESULTS: The unaided sound field threshold improved from an average PTA4 of 63.6 ± 3.4 dB HL to an aided average PTA4 of 29.3 ± 3.0 dB HL after 1 month of device use. The word recognition score (WRS) improved from an average of 27.9 ± 15.9% unaided to an aided average WRS of 91.3 ± 4.4% (p = 0.0003) after 1 month, 92.0 ± 4.1% (p = 0.0002) after 6 months, and 92.7 ± 5.3% (p < 0.0001) after 12 months using the ADHEAR system compared to the unaided condition for all 3 time points. The improvements in the speech in noise at 1, 6, and 12 months were as well consistent over time. The average improvement at the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of +5 dB was 58% and 53% at the SNR of +0 dB. No complications were reported, and all patients continued to use the ADHEAR after the study end. The questionnaire results revealed high user satisfaction and an average wearing time of 12 h per day. CONCLUSION: This 12-month trial of the nonsurgical adhesive BCD in CAA patients showed sufficient and reliable audiological and subjective outcomes, long wearing time, and high acceptance. The ADHEAR can be considered a suitable option to treat children with CAA for the given indication, without the drawbacks of nonsurgical devices that use pressure for retention of the audio processor or the costs and possible complications involved with a surgical alternative.

Two-phase survey on the frequency of use and safety of MRI for hearing implant recipients.

PURPOSE: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is often used to visualize and diagnose soft tissues. Hearing implant (HI) recipients are likely to require at least one MRI scan during their lifetime. However, the MRI scanner can interact with the implant magnet, resulting in complications for the HI recipient. This survey, which was conducted in two phases, aimed to evaluate the safety and performance of MRI scans for individuals with a HI manufactured by MED-EL (MED-EL GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria). METHODS: A survey was developed and distributed in two phases to HEARRING clinics to obtain information about the use of MRI for recipients of MED-EL devices. Phase 1 focused on how often MRI is used in diagnostic imaging of the head region of the cochlear implant (CI) recipients. Phase 2 collected safety information about MRI scans performed on HI recipients. RESULTS: 106 of the 126 MRI scans reported in this survey were performed at a field strength of 1.5 T, on HI recipients who wore the SYNCHRONY CI or SYNCHRONY ABI. The head and spine were the most frequently imaged regions. 123 of the 126 scans were performed without any complications; two HI recipients experienced discomfort/pain. One recipient required reimplantation after an MRI was performed using a scanner that had not been approved for that implant. There was only one case that required surgical removal of the implant to reduce the imaging artefact. CONCLUSION: Individuals with either a SYNCHRONY CI or SYNCHRONY ABI from MED-EL can safely undergo a 1.5 T MRI when it is performed according to the manufacturer's safety policies and procedures.

Towards a Unified Testing Framework for Single-Sided Deafness Studies: A Consensus Paper.

BACKGROUND: While hearing aids for a contralateral routing of signals (CROS-HA) and bone conduction devices have been the traditional treatment for single-sided deafness (SSD) and asymmetric hearing loss (AHL), in recent years, cochlear implants (CIs) have increasingly become a viable treatment choice, particularly in countries where regulatory approval and reimbursement schemes are in place. Part of the reason for this shift is that the CI is the only device capable of restoring bilateral input to the auditory system and hence of possibly reinstating binaural hearing. Although several studies have independently shown that the CI is a safe and effective treatment for SSD and AHL, clinical outcome measures in those studies and across CI centers vary greatly. Only with a consistent use of defined and agreed-upon outcome measures across centers can high-level evidence be generated to assess the safety and efficacy of CIs and alternative treatments in recipients with SSD and AHL. METHODS: This paper presents a comparative study design and minimum outcome measures for the assessment of current treatment options in patients with SSD/AHL. The protocol was developed, discussed, and eventually agreed upon by expert panels that convened at the 2015 APSCI conference in Beijing, China, and at the CI 2016 conference in Toronto, Canada. RESULTS: A longitudinal study design comparing CROS-HA, BCD, and CI treatments is proposed. The recommended outcome measures include (1) speech in noise testing, using the same set of 3 spatial configurations to compare binaural benefits such as summation, squelch, and head shadow across devices; (2) localization testing, using stimuli that rove in both level and spectral content; (3) questionnaires to collect quality of life measures and the frequency of device use; and (4) questionnaires for assessing the impact of tinnitus before and after treatment, if applicable. CONCLUSION: A protocol for the assessment of treatment options and outcomes in recipients with SSD and AHL is presented. The proposed set of minimum outcome measures aims at harmonizing assessment methods across centers and thus at generating a growing body of high-level evidence for those treatment options.

Postoperative pain in patients undergoing a transcutaneous active bone conduction implant (Bonebridge).

The objective of the study was to evaluate postoperative pain following a transcutaneous active conductive hearing implant. 27 patients undergoing Bonebridge (BB) bone conduction implantation were evaluated with two pain-related questionnaires. The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) was used to measure the degree of disability including none or little impact (≤49), mild (50-55), moderate (56-59), and severe (≥60). The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) was used to assess pain severity score and function interference (0 = no pain to 10 = worst pain); meaningful pain was considered to be ≥3. The impact of surgical factors on postoperative pain was analyzed. Postoperative BB pain results were compared with 11 Vibrant Soundbridge™ (VSB) and 103 cochlear implant (CI) users. The mean pre- and postoperative HIT-6 scores for BB implantation were 42.6 and 41.8, respectively and the mean preoperative BPI pain severity score changed from 0.6 to 0.9 postoperatively, whereas the preoperative interference score changed from 0.1 to 0.3. None of the mean postoperative values revealed significant pain. The retrosigmoid approach, the need for dural or sinus compression, and the use of bone conduction implant lifts had no significant impact on pain scores. The mean postoperative HIT-6 pain scores for patients with BB, VSB, and CI were 41.8, 46.4, and 42.8, respectively, with the differences not being significant. BB implantation causes no significant postoperative pain irrespective of sinus or dura compression. Pain scores were similar to those experienced by patients with other transcutaneous auditory implants such as middle ear or CIs.

Active Bone Conduction Implant and Adhesive Bone Conduction Device: A Comparison of Audiological Performance and Subjective Satisfaction.

Introduction Atresia of the external auditory canal affects 1 in every 10 thousand to 20 thousand live births, with a much higher prevalence in Latin America, at 5 to 21 out of every 10 thousand newborns. The treatment involves esthetic and functional aspects. Regarding the functional treatment, there are surgical and nonsurgical alternatives like spectacle frames and rigid and softband systems. Active transcutaneous bone conduction implants (BCIs) achieve good sound transmission and directly stimulate the bone. Objective To assess the audiological performance and subjective satisfaction of children implanted with an active transcutaneous BCI for more than one year and to compare the outcomes with a nonsurgical adhesive bone conduction device (aBCD) in the same users. Methods The present is a prospective, multicentric study. The audiological performance was evaluated at 1, 6, and 12 months postactivation, and after a 1-month trial with the nonsurgical device. Results Ten patients completed all tests. The 4-frequency pure-tone average (4PTA) in the unaided condition was of 65 dB HL, which improved significantly to 20 dB HL after using the BCI for 12 months. The speech recognition in quiet in the unaided condition was of 33% on average, which improved significantly, to 99% with the BCI, and to 91% with the aBCD. Conclusion The aBCD demonstrated sufficient hearing improvement and subjective satisfaction; thus, it is a good solution for hearing rehabilitation if surgery is not desired or not possible. If surgery is an option, the BCI is the superior device in terms of hearing outcomes, particularly background noise and subjective satisfaction.

Is there an age limit for cochlear implantation?

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the quality of life following cochlear implantation in elderly postlingually deaf adults. METHODS: Data were studied concerning demographics and audiometric evaluation in postlingually deaf adults at least 60 years of age who underwent cochlear implantation in 3 institutions. The Glasgow Benefit Inventory was used to quantify the quality of life. The patients were divided into 2 groups (those less than 70 years of age and those at least 70 years of age), and the results were also compared to those of younger adult cochlear implant recipients (less than 60 years of age). RESULTS: Eighty-one patients were included in this study. The mean age at implantation was 68 years (range, 60 to 82 years). Cochlear implantation significantly improved the patients' audiometric outcomes (pure tone average and speech perception; p < 0.05). The Glasgow Benefit Inventory showed a benefit overall (+36) and on the individual subscales (+49, +20, and +1). The difference in quality of life was not significant between those less than 70 and those at least 70 years of age (p = 0.90). The results were similar to those of younger postlingually deaf implant recipients. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly cochlear implant users experience an improvement in their quality of life, with outcomes similar to those achieved in younger adults. Particular attention must be paid to the possibility of age-related conditions in the elderly that may increase the risks of surgery.

QoL, CIs, QALYs, and Individualized Rehabilitation: The Clinical and Practical Benefits of Regularly Assessing the Quality of Life of Adult Cochlear Implant Recipients.

This study aimed to report quality of life (QoL) scores in unilateral cochlear implant (CI) users and to generate guidance for clinicians on using QoL measures to individualize CI counselling and rehabilitation and to increase access to CIs as a mode of rehabilitation. Participants (n = 101) were unilateral CI users with single-sided deafness (SSD; n = 17), asymmetrical hearing loss (AHL; n = 26), or bilateral hearing loss (Uni; n = 58). Generic QoL was assessed via the Health Utilities Index (HUI-3), and disease-specific QoL was assessed via the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing scale (SSQ12) and Nijmegen CI Questionnaire (NCIQ) at preimplantation and at 6 and 12 months of CI use. All groups had significantly increased HUI-3 scores at both intervals. The SSD group showed significant benefit on the SSQ12 at visit 3, the AHL group showed significant benefit on the SSQ12 and most NCIQ subdomains at both intervals, and the Uni group showed significant benefit with both tests at both intervals. Unilateral CI recipients demonstrate improved QoL within the first 12 months of device use. Regular assessment with generic and disease-specific questionnaires has the potential to play an important role in personalizing treatment and possibly in increasing access to CI provision.

Effect of Cochlear Implant Electrode Insertion Depth on Speech Perception Outcomes: A Systematic Review.

Objective: The suitable electrode array choice is broadly discussed in cochlear implantation surgery. Whether to use a shorter electrode length under the aim of structure preservation versus choosing a longer array to achieve a greater cochlear coverage is a matter of debate. The aim of this review is to identify the impact of the insertion depth of a cochlear implant (CI) electrode array on CI users' speech perception outcomes. Databases Reviewed: PubMed was searched for English-language articles that were published in a peer-reviewed journal from 1997 to 2022. Methods: A systematic electronic search of the literature was carried out using PubMed to find relevant literature on the impact of insertion depth on speech perception. The review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines of reporting. Studies in both, children and adults with pre- or postlingual hearing loss, implanted with a CI were included in this study. Articles written in languages other than English, literature reviews, meta-analyses, animal studies, histopathological studies, or studies pertaining exclusively to imaging modalities without reporting correlations between insertion depth and speech outcomes were excluded. The risk of bias was determined using the "Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions" tool. Articles were extracted by 2 authors independently using predefined search terms. The titles and abstracts were screened manually to identify studies that potentially meet the inclusion criteria. The extracted information included: the study population, type of hearing loss, outcomes reported, devices used, speech perception outcomes, insertion depth (linear insertion depth and/or the angular insertion depth), and correlation between insertion depth and the speech perception outcomes. Results: A total of 215 relevant studies were assessed for eligibility. Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed further. Seven studies found no significant correlation between insertion depth and speech perception outcomes. Fifteen found either a significant positive correlation or a positive effect between insertion depth and speech perception. Only 1 study found a significant negative correlation between insertion depth and speech perception outcomes. Conclusion: Although most studies reported a positive effect of insertion depth on speech perception outcomes, one-third of the identified studies reported no correlation. Thus, the insertion depth must be considered as a contributing factor to speech perception rather than as a major decisive criterion. Registration: This review has been registered in PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42021257547), available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.

Using Generic and Disease-Specific Measures to Assess Quality of Life before and after 12 Months of Hearing Implant Use: A Prospective, Longitudinal, Multicenter, Observational Clinical Study.

The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of hearing implant (HI) use on quality of life (QoL) and to determine which QoL measure(s) quantify QoL with greater sensitivity in users of different types of HIs. Participants were adult cochlear implant (CI), active middle ear implant (VIBRANT SOUNDBRIDGE (VSB)), or active transcutaneous bone conduction implant (the BONEBRIDGE (BB)) recipients. Generic QoL and disease-specific QoL were assessed at three intervals: pre-activation, 6 months of device use, and 12 months of device use. 169 participants completed the study (110 CI, 18VSB, and 41BB). CI users' QoL significantly increased from 0-6 m device use on both the generic- and the disease-specific measures. On some device-specific measures, their QoL also significantly increased between 6 and 12 m device use. VSB users' QoL significantly increased between all tested intervals with the disease-specific measure but not the generic measure. BB users' QoL significantly increased from 0-6 m device use on both the generic- and the disease-specific measures. In sum, HI users experienced significant postoperative increases in QoL within their first 12 m of device use, especially when disease-specific measures were used. Disease-specific QoL measures appeared to be more sensitive than their generic counterparts.

Minimally Traumatic Cochlear Implant Surgery: Expert Opinion in 2010 and 2020.

This study aimed to discover expert opinion on the surgical techniques and materials most likely to achieve maximum postoperative residual hearing preservation in cochlear implant (CI) surgery and to determine how these opinions have changed since 2010. A previously published questionnaire used in a study published in 2010 was adapted and expanded. The questionnaire was distributed to an international group of experienced CI surgeons. Present results were compared, via descriptive statistics, to those from the 2010 survey. Eighteen surgeons completed the questionnaire. Respondents clearly favored the following: round window insertion, slow array insertion, and the peri- and postoperative use of systematic antibiotics. Insertion depth was regarded as important, and electrode arrays less likely to induce trauma were preferred. The usefulness of dedicated soft-surgery training was also recognized. A lack of agreement was found on whether the middle ear cavity should be flushed with a non-aminoglycoside antibiotic solution or whether a sheath or insertion tube should be used to avoid contaminating the array with blood or bone dust. In conclusion, this paper demonstrates how beliefs about CI soft surgery have changed since 2010 and shows areas of current consensus and disagreement.

Suitable Electrode Choice for Robotic-Assisted Cochlear Implant Surgery: A Systematic Literature Review of Manual Electrode Insertion Adverse Events.

Background and Objective: The cochlear implant (CI) electrode insertion process is a key step in CI surgery. One of the aims of advances in robotic-assisted CI surgery (RACIS) is to realize better cochlear structure preservation and to precisely control insertion. The aim of this literature review is to gain insight into electrode selection for RACIS by acquiring a thorough knowledge of electrode insertion and related complications from classic CI surgery involving a manual electrode insertion process. Methods: A systematic electronic search of the literature was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science to find relevant literature on electrode tip fold over (ETFO), electrode scalar deviation (ESD), and electrode migration (EM) from both pre-shaped and straight electrode types. Results: A total of 82 studies that include 8,603 ears implanted with a CI, i.e., pre-shaped (4,869) and straight electrodes (3,734), were evaluated. The rate of ETFO (25 studies, 2,335 ears), ESD (39 studies, 3,073 ears), and EM (18 studies, 3,195 ears) was determined. An incidence rate (±95% CI) of 5.38% (4.4-6.6%) of ETFO, 28.6% (26.6-30.6%) of ESD, and 0.53% (0.2-1.1%) of EM is associated with pre-shaped electrodes, whereas with straight electrodes it was 0.51% (0.1-1.3%), 11% (9.2-13.0%), and 3.2% (2.5-3.95%), respectively. The differences between the pre-shaped and straight electrode types are highly significant (p < 0.001). Laboratory experiments show evidence that robotic insertions of electrodes are less traumatic than manual insertions. The influence of round window (RW) vs. cochleostomy (Coch) was not assessed. Conclusion: Considering the current electrode designs available and the reported incidence of insertion complications, the use of straight electrodes in RACIS and conventional CI surgery (and manual insertion) appears to be less traumatic to intracochlear structures compared with pre-shaped electrodes. However, EM of straight electrodes should be anticipated. RACIS has the potential to reduce these complications.

Alternative Inverted Middle Fossa Approach in Bonebridge Surgery. Technique, Results and Complications.

Introduction The transmastoid approach is the most recommended technique to Bonebridge surgery, while in patients with bad anatomy or in the canal wall down technique, retrosigmoid or Middle Fossa Approaches are the alternative surgical options. Objective To describe a novel alternative approach called inverted middle fossa approach (IMFA) and its technique and audiological outcomes. Methods Seven patients submitted to the IMFA were included. All patients presented conductive and mixed hearing loss with bone thresholds of the audiogram > 40 dB. The audiological test was conducted pre- and postoperatively. Results A total of 5 males and 2 females, aged 13,8 years old (range 6-25 years old) were studied. The average follow-up was of 20 months (12 to 32 months). All patients presented aural atresia, except one with severe osseous-fibrous dysplasia of the temporal bone. Two patients showed bilateral compromise, three patients had associated Goldenhar and Treacher Collins syndrome. On the preoperative audiograms, air conduction (AC) thresholds showed a PTA4 (0.5, 1, 2 and 4 kHz) of 66.7 dB (standard deviation [SD] = ± 7.8), while the bone conduction thresholds reached an average of 11.2 dB (SD = ± 6.9). The postoperative thresholds did not change, and additional sensorineural damage was not observed before activation. Four weeks after surgery, all the patients were fitted with the external processor. The postoperative audiological aided exam showed AC PTA 4 thresholds of 18.9 dB (SD = ± 5.9). Conclusion The IMFA allows the nearest position of the microphone to the external auditory canal. The technique is a suitable option to the 3 classical approaches with similar rate of audiological results. More investigation is needed to determine the benefit of the novel approach compared with the others.

Active smoking effect in allergic rhinitis.

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoke has been described as causing increased prevalence of rhinitis symptoms and decreased atopy. Furthermore, these nasal symptoms and quality of life in smokers with Allergic Rhinitis (AR) were not significantly different to non-smokers. As a result of this duality, a comparison study between the quality of life and inflammatory markers of atopy among active smokers and non-smokers having AR was put forward. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study in adult smokers and non-smokers, with a clinical diagnosis of AR and positive Skin Prick Test (SPT). Smoking status was confirmed by salivary cotinine measurements. Functional respiratory evaluation was performed, and quality of life between groups was compared using Mini-RQLQ questionnaire. Immunological markers in serum and nasal washes (IgE, IL-4, IL 5, IL 13, IL 17, IL 33) were evaluated, while samples from a third group of passive smokers was incorporated for serological comparison exclusively. The statistical analysis included Student T test, x2, Mann Whitney U (Anova 2-way), and Kruskal Wallis for 3 groups analysis. Values of P < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients per group with similar demographics and allergen sensitivity were studied. Regarding inflammatory markers, a reduction of IL 33 in the serum of smokers (P < 0.001) was the only statistically significant different parameter revealed, showing a remarkable trend in nasal lavage. Salivary cotinine levels were absolutely different (P < 0.0001), but pulmonary function evaluations were not statistically significant after multiple adjusting. There were no significant differences in quality of life parameters. CONCLUSIONS: In our study of AR, active smokers do not demonstrate impaired nasal related quality of life or impact on atopic inflammatory parameters, compared to non-smokers. Reduced levels of IL33 could explain a lack of symptoms alerting smokers of the harmful consequences of smoking.

[Post- stapedectomy tinnitus´ perception. Experience in a university hospital] / Cambios perceptuales del tinnitus post- estapedectomia. Experiencia de un Hospital universitario.

INTRODUCCION: La otosclerosis es un trastorno de remodelación ósea caracterizada por disminución de la movilidad del estribo, lo que se traduce en una pérdida auditiva y tinnitus. El tratamiento mas comúnmente utilizado y mas eficaz es la cirugía. El objetivo principal es una mejora significativa en la pérdida auditiva, pero la reducción del tinnitus es un beneficio adicional. OBJETIVOS: Determinar los cambios en la sensación del tinnitus después de la estapedectomía en pacientes con otosclerosis operados en nuestro medio; así también como los factores que podrían asociarse con dichos cambios. MATERIALES Y METODOS: Realizamos un estudio prospectivo, observacional, analítico y longitudinal, en el que se incluyeron 15 pacientes con otosclerosis operados en el Sanatorio que se sometieron a un examen completo con Audiometría, Acúfenometría y Tomografía computada; se recopilaron datos mediante la Escala de Impresión Clínica Global y el Indice Funcional del Tinnitus, al momento previo a la cirugía y a los tres meses de intervenidos. Se utilizó el Soft R- medic e Infostat para analizar las variables y graficar los resultados. RESULTADOS: Las diferencias entre el estado de audición pre y postoperatoria fueron estadisticamente significativas (p<<0.001). Se comprobó además, diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre la percepción del tinnitus antes y despues de la cirugía (p<<0.001). Y que dicha diferencia se relaciona estadíticamente con la mejoría de la audición (p=0.01). DISCUSION- CONCLUSION: La mayoría de los pacientes refirieron una mejoría en el estado de percepción del acúfeno; además de la mejoría en su audición; resultando en asociación significativa ambas variables.

Introducción: La otosclerosis es un trastorno de remodelación ósea caracterizada por disminución de la movilidad del estribo, lo que se traduce en una pérdida auditiva y tinnitus. El tratamiento mas comúnmente utilizado y mas eficaz es la cirugía. El objetivo principal es una mejora significativa en la pérdida auditiva, pero la reducción del tinnitus es un beneficio adicional. Objetivos: Determinar los cambios en la sensación del tinnitus después de la estapedectomía en pacientes con otosclerosis operados en nuestro medio; así también como los factores que podrían asociarse con dichos cambios.. Materiales y Métodos: Realizamos un estudio prospectivo, observacional, analítico y longitudinal, en el que se incluyeron 15 pacientes con otosclerosis operados en el Sanatorio que se sometieron a un examen completo con Audiometría, Acúfenometría y Tomografía computada; se recopilaron datos mediante la Escala de Impresión Clínica Global y el Indice Funcional del Tinnitus, al momento previo a la cirugía y a los tres meses de intervenidos. Se utilizó el Soft R- medic e Infostat para analizar las variables y graficar los resultados. Resultados: Las diferencias entre el estado de audición pre y postoperatoria fueron estadisticamente significativas (p<<0.001). Se comprobó además, diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre la percepción del tinnitus antes y despues de la cirugía (p<<0.001). Y que dicha diferencia se relaciona estadíticamente con la mejoría de la audición (p=0.01). Dsicusión-Conclusión: La mayoría de los pacientes refirieron una mejoría en el estado de percepción del acúfeno; además de la mejoría en su audición; resultando en asociación significativa ambas variables

The reliability of hearing implants: report on the type and incidence of cochlear implant failures.

Objectives: This study presents the data collected through a database on the type and incidence of cochlear implant device failures and major complications and quantifies the risk of failures across time based on the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) CI86:2017 standard. Methods: Information on reliability of MED-EL cochlear implants was collected from the MED-EL complaint database between 2003 and2013. Explants were categorized and device reliability was calculated according to the AAMI CI86:2017 standard principles. Results: Data were collected for 11662 devices (5462 children, 6200 adults). The mean duration of follow up was 46.16 months. The total failure rate for all devices and all subjects was 2.41%. Medical related explants (MRE) were significantly worse for children than for adults with the ceramic implants, C40+ (p = 0.008) and PULSAR (p = 0.020). Device failure explants (DFE) were significantly worse for children than for adults with all four devices in the study, the C40+ (p < 0.001), PULSAR (p < 0.001), SONATA (p < 0.001), and CONCERTO (p = 0.023). The mean annual failure rate for all subjects and devices was 0.63% (1.03% for children, 0.28% for adults). The mean annual failure rate was 0.90% for the C40+; 0.57% for the PULSAR; 0.46% for the SONATA; and 0.39% for the CONCERTO. Conclusions: Compared to adults, children had significantly worse MRE and DFE due to a higher risk of head trauma and more vulnerable skull anatomy. Further, the authors conclude that the AAMI standard will ensure a more comprehensive and transparent evaluation of cochlear implant reliability in the future.

[Intratympanic dexamethasone as therapeutic option in sudden sensorineural hearing loss]. / Dexametasona intratimpánica como opción terapéutica en hipoacusia neurosensorial súbita.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The administration of systemic corticosteroids has demonstrated effectiveness on the treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. However, its systemic toxicity and subsequent difficulty for its justification in some patients have led to it being applied intratympanically. The main aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of intratympanic dexamethasone in these patients. In addition we evaluate the relationship between the prognosis of this condition and the magnitude of initial hearing loss, the presence of vertigo or delay in the beginning of therapy. METHODS: We performed a retrospective case study of 18 patients. All of them were treated with intratympanic dexamethasone (4 mg/ml), administered weekly for 3 weeks. The follow-up was 1 month at least. The therapeutic success was arbitrarily defined to be a mean improvement of 25 dB or greater. RESULTS: 72.2% of the population recovered hearing successfully. The mean auditory threshold prior to treatment was 91+/-25 dB versus 51+/-35 dB after the end of it (p<0.0005). In addition, we observed that the initial severity of the hearing loss, the presence of vertigo and the delay in starting therapy cannot be considered as indicators of poor auditory prognosis. CONCLUSIONS: Intratympanic dexamethasone appears to be an effective therapeutic option for patients with sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss who, for whatever reason, cannot be treated with systemic steroids. Nonetheless, randomized controlled trials should be instituted to improve levels of scientific evidence.

Congenital Aural Atresia prevalence in the Argentinian population.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital Aural Atresia (CAA) or microtia is a malformation that results in esthetic and functional problems. There is little information on prevalence, considering that Latin American is the most affected region in the world. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of microtia, considering the different ethnical structure of the population. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of the clinical reports of newborn infants (public hospitals) in three different regions. RESULTS: The incidence of CAA in Argentina was 1 case per 7500 new births (i.e. 1.3/10,000). Marked differences were found per geographical area. The means were calculated per year by bilateral parametric estimation, according to the ethnical origins of the population. In the Caucasoid area: 02.47/10,000 (±1.2), in the Mestizo area: 03.99/10,000 (±0.0) and finally in the Amerindian area: 20.93/10,000 (±0.1). CONCLUSION: This study shows different incidences according to the demographic features of the population from 1.90/10,000 to 20.9/10,000. This data indicates that CAA is associated with a genetic problem (ethnic differences).

Active Bone Conduction Implant and Adhesive Bone Conduction Device: A Comparison of Audiological Performance and Subjective Satisfaction

Abstract Introduction Atresia of the external auditory canal affects 1 in every 10 thousand to 20 thousand live births, with a much higher prevalence in Latin America, at 5 to 21 out of every 10 thousand newborns. The treatment involves esthetic and functional aspects. Regarding the functional treatment, there are surgical and nonsurgical alternatives like spectacle frames and rigid and softband systems. Active transcutaneous bone conduction implants (BCIs) achieve good sound transmission and directly stimulate the bone. Objective To assess the audiological performance and subjective satisfaction of children implanted with an active transcutaneous BCI for more than one year and to compare the outcomes with a nonsurgical adhesive bone conduction device (aBCD) in the same users. Methods The present is a prospective, multicentric study. The audiological performance was evaluated at 1, 6, and 12 months postactivation, and after a 1-month trial with the nonsurgical device. Results Ten patients completed all tests. The 4-frequency pure-tone average (4PTA) in the unaided condition was of 65 dB HL, which improved significantly to 20 dB HL after using the BCI for 12 months. The speech recognition in quiet in the unaided condition was of 33% on average, which improved significantly, to 99% with the BCI, and to 91% with the aBCD. Conclusion The aBCD demonstrated sufficient hearing improvement and subjective satisfaction; thus, it is a good solution for hearing rehabilitation if surgery is not desired or not possible. If surgery is an option, the BCI is the superior device in terms of hearing outcomes, particularly background noise and subjective satisfaction.

Auditory Performances in Older and Younger Adult Cochlear Implant Recipients: Use of the HEARRING Registry.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the hearing outcomes of cochlear implantation in different age groups by using data collected in the HEARRING registry. METHODS: A multicenter study. Data of 146 patients were collected in a HEARRING registry. Patients were divided into three different age groups; ≤ 55 years old (age group 1, n = 66), 56 to 69 years old (age group 2, n = 45), and ≥ 70 years old (age group 3, n = 35). Speech in quiet (SPIQ), speech in noise (SPIN), and hearing implant sound quality index (HISQUI19) scores were evaluated for the different age groups at different test moments (preoperatively, 3, 6, 12, and 24 mo after first fitting). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) was found between preoperative scores and the scores on all the follow-up moments across all age groups. For SPIQ and SPIN, none of the time points showed a statistically significant age effect (p = 0.88 and p = 0.89). For HISQUI19 scores, a statistically significant age effect was found at 12 months after first fitting. The oldest age group scored significantly lower on the HISQUI19 compared with the youngest age group. CONCLUSION: Hearing outcomes of adult cochlear implant users of different age groups were evaluated. The SPIQ and SPIN tests showed no significant differences between the different age groups. Nevertheless, the youngest group scored significantly better on self -perceived benefit (HISQUI19) with a cochlear implant compared with the oldest age group.Further research is needed to receive more insight into cochlear implantation in the elderly and its implications on rehabilitating and supporting this expanding older population.

[MASK (Mobile Airways Sentinel Network). ARIA's comprehensive solution for mobile app for the multimorbidity of allergic rhinitis and asthma]. / MASK (Mobile Airways Sentinel Network). La solución integral de ARIA por app móvil para la multimorbilidad de rinitis alérgica y asma.

The vast majority of patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) do not receive the proper management which is recommended by the guidelines, but they frequently self-medicate. MASK (Mobile Airways Sentinel Network) is an integral part of a project that is supported by the European Union against chronic diseases and focused on active and healthy aging. MASK represents the third phase of ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma), in which, by using a mobile application in a smart device, the objective is to guide the patient in the control of his/her multi-morbidity, AR and/or allergic conjunctivitis (AC) and/or asthma. The mobile app Allergy Diary by MACVIA-ARIA is free and it is available for both Android and iOS platforms. After it is downloaded to the patient's cell phone, it first requests some information about the patient's profile, allergic pathologies and medication; afterwards, through a visual analog scale, the patient is invited to determine the degree of affectation in the nose, eyes, and bronchi, and its influence on their productivity at work / school. After analyzing the data generated by filling the Allergy Diary, it became clear there is a new clinical entity: allergic rhinitis+ allergic conjunctivitis +asthma, with greater effect; in addition to a high level of self-medication: in general, the patient takes medication on days when symptoms are present. The app has already been deployed in 23 countries, including several Spanish-speaking countries.

La mayoría de los pacientes con rinitis alérgica no recibe el manejo idóneo, sino que se automedica. MASK (Mobile Airways Sentinel Network) forma parte integral de un proyecto apoyado por la Unión Europea contra las enfermedades crónicas y enfocado al envejecimiento activo y saludable. Constituye la tercera fase de ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma), en la cual mediante una aplicación móvil en un dispositivo inteligente se intenta guiar al paciente en el control de su multimorbilidad, rinitis o conjuntivitis alérgicas o asma. La aplicación Diario de Alergia por MACVIA-ARIA es gratuita y está disponible para Android e iOS. Al descargarla al celular del paciente, a este se le piden datos de su perfil, patologías alérgicas y medicación; posteriormente, mediante una escala visual analógica se le invita a determinar el grado de afectación en nariz, ojos y bronquios y su influencia sobre su productividad laboral/escolar. Con los datos del Diario de Alergia se observa que existe un nuevo patrón de presentación: rinitis alérgica + conjuntivitis alérgica + asma, con mayor afectación, así como un alto nivel de automedicación: en general, el paciente toma medicación cuando presenta síntomas. La app se ha desplegado en 23 países, incluyendo varios países hispanohablantes.