Remote Auditory Training for Cochlear Implant Users
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether auditory training for people with cochlear implants can be effectively conducted through teleconferencing. The goal is to help those with severe hearing loss improve their listening skills, especially if they live far from a treatment center. Participants will either join remote sessions or attend in-person sessions to determine which method works best. The trial seeks individuals who recently received cochlear implants, experienced hearing loss after learning to speak, and live more than an hour from Toronto. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could make auditory training more accessible for many.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that remote auditory training is safe for cochlear implant users?
Research has shown that remote auditory training for people with cochlear implants is generally safe. Studies on telemedicine in hearing rehabilitation indicate that remote connections for training are both possible and beneficial. This approach allows people to receive necessary support without traveling, enhancing convenience.
Another study examined remote programming of cochlear implants and found it safe and effective. Participants in that study did not experience any major negative effects from the remote services, suggesting that users well-receive remote auditory training.
Overall, these studies suggest that remote auditory training for cochlear implants does not pose significant safety risks. It offers a safe alternative to in-person visits for those needing hearing support but unable to access it easily in person.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about remote auditory training for cochlear implant users because it offers a flexible and accessible alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy. Unlike standard in-person sessions, this approach allows users to receive therapy through teleconferencing, making it more convenient, especially for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas. This could potentially improve access to auditory training, enabling more consistent and frequent sessions, which may enhance overall outcomes for cochlear implant users.
What evidence suggests that remote auditory training is effective for cochlear implant users?
A previous study found that auditory training (AT) improved cochlear implant users' speech understanding and overall quality of life after just three months. Research shows that auditory training helps the brain adapt to hearing in new ways with a cochlear implant, enhancing speech comprehension. Additionally, a review of several studies found that adult cochlear implant users benefit from auditory training, which can improve their listening skills. In this trial, participants in the "Remote AT services" arm will receive auditory training through teleconferencing, an effective and well-liked method. Meanwhile, the "In House AT" arm will provide face-to-face auditory training at the treatment site. These findings suggest that both remote and in-person auditory training can effectively help cochlear implant users improve their hearing.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kassandra H Kaminskas, M.Cl.Sc.
Principal Investigator
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre - Clinical Audiologist
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with post-lingual hearing loss who are native English speakers, have no cognitive deficits, and can use teleconferencing. They should live over an hour away from the hospital and be willing to attend sessions with a partner. It's not for those with retro-cochlear hearing loss, additional disabilities affecting participation, prelingual hearing loss, or unrealistic expectations about cochlear implants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive auditory training (AT) sessions either face-to-face or via teleconferencing over the first 3 months following activation of the cochlear implant
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment through performance measures and questionnaires
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Auditory Training
- Teleconferencing
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Lead Sponsor