Learning Objectives: Persistent conductive hearing loss in adults can occur for various reasons. It is a recognised consequence of cholesteatoma, and has a significant quality of life impact. Middle ear implantable hearing devices are a relatively novel aid for conductive hearing loss; the first Vibrant Soundbridge © (VSB) surgery was in 2006 and Bonebridge © (BB) in 2013. The objective benefit of improved hearing thresholds is well documented in the literature. This study assesses the more subjective quality of life (QOL) benefit of middle ear implants.
Method: All patients who have undergone VSB or BB surgery were requested to complete Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) questionnaire after the device had been switched on.
The questionnaires were scored as per the GBI inventory scoring system.
Results: 15 out of 25 patients operated on (25 ears) completed the request, giving a return rate of 60%. Eight patients had Bonebridge © and seven had Vibrant Soundbridge © surgery.
The average calculated GBI total sub-score was 32.4, the average social GBI sub-score was 53.5, physical sub-score average was 57.2, and general sub-score was 70.8.
Conclusions: The authors propose that use of QOL assessment is an important component to be included in post-operative assessment alongside audiology assessment.
This case series has shown good QOL outcomes. The scores are equivalent to or better than published GBI scores for other comparable surgical hearing devices[i] . The benefit of middle ear implants is well supported by a combination of audiological and QOL improvement for patients.
[i] Arunachalam PS, Kilby D, Meikle D, Davison T, et al. (2001). Bone-anchored hearing aid quality of life assessed by Glasgow Benefit Inventory. Laryngoscope 111(7):1260–3
