Otolaryngology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Recently, a new acoustic device, the so-called Sophono Alpha system (SAS), has been introduced into clinical practice. This is a boneconduction system, implanted transcutaneously, devised for restoring conductive or mixed hearing loss with bone conduction thresholds better than or equal to 45dB. It consists of a behind-the-ear external digital audio processor and a subcutaneous magnetic implant, screwed to the skull. To our knowledge, no investigation has been reported regarding its use in patients submitted to subtotal petrosectomy (SP). This surgical technique induces a postoperative conductive hearing loss up to 50 or 60 dB. SAS may be an optimal alternative to conventional bone conductive hearing aids, in order to restore adequate hearing. The aim of this study was to assess SAS hearing aids in 10 patients suffering from recurrent chronic middle ear disease who underwent subtotal petrosectomy. Presence of mixed hearing loss with bone conduction thresholds better than or equal to 45dB was present in each patient. Audiometric tests were performed before and after Sophono implantation and using a conventional bone conduction hearing aid (hearing glasses). Speech audiometry data (speech recognition threshold and word recognition score) were also performed. Speech recognition threshold in dB and percentage of word recognition score at 65dB were subsequently calculated. After implantation and activation of the Sophono Alpha system audiological data showed an average air conduction value of 42.1 dB. By comparing this data with the values of air conduction following subtotal petrosectomy, an average acoustic improvement of 29.7 dB could be calculated. Results in terms of hearing have been compared with those obtained using conventional hearing aids. The hearing results showed significant better outcomes of Sophono Alpha system vs. conventional bone conduction aid. Information about general, social and physical patient benefits after SAS implantation was carefully investigated using the validated Glasgow Benefit Inventory.

Biography

Giannicola Iannella graduated in Medicine from Sapienza University of Rome in 2012, with a score of 110/110 with distinction. Currently he is registered to the graduate school in Otorhinolaryngology and Cervico-Facial Pathology to the Policlinico Umberto I “Sapienza” University of Rome since July 2013. He is also the author of more than 40 publications in otolaryngology head and neck surgery.

Email: marco.devincentiis@uniroma1.it