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

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.

Keywords::

• Cochlear implantation
• quality ratings
• user satisfaction

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Dr Martin Eisendle and Dr Edda Amann for assistance with writing this paper.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.