A new audio processor for combined electric and acoustic stimulation for the treatment of partial deafness

Acta Otolaryngol. 2012 Jul;132(7):739-50. doi: 10.3109/00016489.2012.654852. Epub 2012 Jun 5.

Abstract

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that a conversion from the Duet to Duet 2 audio processor greatly improved patient satisfaction and subjective benefits.

Objectives: The aims of this study were to compare the DUET 2 audio processor to the DUET speech processor and to evaluate DUET 2 user satisfaction subjectively.

Methods: Ten experienced electric acoustic stimulation (EAS) users following partial deafness treatment upgraded from the MED-EL DUET to the DUET 2 were tested with the adaptive auditory speech test, Pruszewicz monosyllabic word test, visual analog scales, and Duet 2 user questionnaire. Tests were performed post-upgrade and compared simultaneously to the DUET at three test intervals over 3 months.

Results: Objective analyses showed that all subjects performed as well with the DUET 2 as the DUET. There was a tendency toward better results with the DUET 2. Subjective testing indicated DUET 2 user preference upon speech and musical stimuli. DUET 2 subject satisfaction was high for wearing comfort, sound quality, and for FineTuner and Private Alert features.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Stimulation
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Auditory Threshold / physiology
  • Cochlear Implantation
  • Cochlear Implants*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss / physiopathology
  • Hearing Loss / psychology
  • Hearing Loss / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Speech Perception / physiology
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult