Objective auditory nerve function test for patients with profound hearing loss and cochlea implantation
Today, cochlea implantation is a very successful method of hearing rehabilitation for profoundly deaf and hard of hearing patients. Its benefits also extend to social and psychosocial areas. In addition, tinnitus severity and distress usually improve as well. The basic prerequisite for a successful fitting of a cochlea implant is the functional capability of the peripheral auditory pathway as well as the central auditory processing. Their integrity is tested by an objective auditory nerve function test.
The aim of the study was to precisely quantify the significance of such a test in order to decisively improve the diagnosis of patients with pronounced hearing disorders and often also with tinnitus.
The study was conducted by Prof. Dr. Heidi Olze, Director Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and spanned a period of three years (2015-2017). The German Foundation Tinnitus and Hearing Charité thanks the company MED-EL.
