Evaluation of Bone-Anchored Hearing Instruments in Chronic Otitis Media: a Multicenter Prospective Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of bone-anchored hearing instruments (BAHIs) in patients with chronic otitis media (COM), using objective and subjective measures. It is a multicenter, prospective trial involving patients with COM who have undergone surgical treatment and have been rehabilitated using BAHIs. Methods: COM Questionnaire-12 (COMQ-12), Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ), World Health Organization (WHO) Quality of Life-BREF questionnaire, and audiometric tests were used for assessment. Results: Twenty-eight patients were included. The average duration of COM was 20.1 +/- 13.32 years. Among the patients, 60.7% (17) were using hearing aids, with a mean usage duration of 10.8 +/- 10.7 years (ranging from 1 to 36 years). Seven patients received the PONTO device, two received the BAH aid (BAHA) connect system, and 19 were implanted with the BAHA attract system. COMQ-12, SSQ,WHO questionaries, and audiometric tests showed significant improvement, and the results were found stable during follow-up. Conclusion: This study reinforces the effectiveness of BAHIs in improving hearing thresholds and quality of life for patients with COM.