Tinnitus and Cochlear Implants

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM · Oct 12, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This UK study looks at tinnitus (ringing in the ears) in adults who have severe to profound hearing loss and are getting a cochlear implant in one ear. It’s an observational study, meaning participants will receive standard care and no extra treatments beyond the usual cochlear implant process. Researchers want to know if tinnitus changes after implantation, how common it is before implantation, and how tinnitus relates to hearing improvements, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life after implantation.

Eligible participants are adults 18 or older who are about to receive a unilateral cochlear implant through the NHS in the UK, have not had a cochlear implant before, and can consent and complete online surveys in English. About 50 people are planned to join. Participants will complete online questionnaires before surgery and then at 2 weeks after implant, right after activation, and at 1, 3, and 6 months after activation. The questions cover tinnitus, mood (depression and anxiety), sleep, and overall quality of life, and the process fits in with routine care visits.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years or older.
• • Determined to be eligible for unilateral cochlear implantation.
• • Did not previously receive a cochlear implant in either ear.
• • Sufficient written or spoken English to participate in study activities.
• • Have access to internet or suitable device to complete online study questionnaires.
• • Able to give informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Significant difficulties preventing independent completion of study activities.