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European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology

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Open Access 21-08-2023 | Middle Ear Implant | Otology

Long-term results and quality of life after vibrant soundbridge implantation (VSBs) in children and adults with aural atresia

Authors: Sophia Gantner, Alexandra Epp, Marlene Pollotzek, John Martin Hempel

Published in: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and acceptance of the active middle ear implant system Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB^®, MED-EL, Austria) in patients with aural atresia or aplasia (children and adults).

Methods

Data from 51 patients (mean age 13.9 ± 11.3 years), 42 (79.2%) children and adolescents, and 11 (20.8%) adults) who received a VSB implant between 2009 and 2019 at the Department of Otolaryngology at LMU Clinic Großhadern, Munich were included in the study. Pure-tone audiometry, speech recognition in a quiet environment and in a noisy environment were performed preoperatively, during the first fitting of the audio processor, after 1–3 years, after 3–5 years, and after 5 years (if possible). The follow-up period ranged from 11 to 157 months with a mean of 58.6 months (4.8 years). Furthermore, the benefit of the VSB was evaluated by self-assessment questionnaires (Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale, respectively, for parents).

Results

Significant improvements were observed in hearing and speech comprehension immediately after the initial fitting of the VSB system (mean hearing gain 38.4 ± 9.4 dB HL) and at follow-up intervals (1–3, 3–5 and after 5 years) for children and adults (p < 0.01). The values remained stable over the long-term, indicating a sustained functional gain from the VSB (mean hearing gain 38.9 ± 9.2 dB HL). The results of the self-assessments affirm the positive influence on hearing and speech comprehension with the VSB. With the VSB, there was an improvement of 41.3 ± 13.7% in the Freiburg monosyllable test.

Conclusion

These results (a stable hearing gain over the long term, a good tolerance of the implant and an improvement in quality of life) affirm the recommendation for using the active middle ear implant VSB as early as permitted for aural atresia and aplasia patients. This study represents the audiometric results with the (to date) largest collective of aural atresia patients and with a long follow-up period.

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Title: Long-term results and quality of life after vibrant soundbridge implantation (VSBs) in children and adults with aural atresia
Authors: Sophia Gantner
Alexandra Epp
Marlene Pollotzek
John Martin Hempel
Publication date: 21-08-2023
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Middle Ear Implant
Audiometry
Audiometry
Published in: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 0937-4477
Electronic ISSN: 1434-4726
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-023-08100-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Long-term results and quality of life after vibrant soundbridge implantation (VSBs) in children and adults with aural atresia

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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