A functional and anatomical comparison between two passive transcutaneous bone conduction implants in children. (May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giannantonio, Sara; Scorpecci, Alessandro; Pacifico, Concettina; Marsella, Pasquale
• Is Part Of: International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. Volume 108(2018:May)
• Page Start: 202
• Page End: 207
• Publication Date: 2018-05
• Subjects: Trancutaneous bone conduction implants -- Sophono -- BAHA attract -- Conductive hearing loss; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Oto-rhino-laryngologie -- Périodiques; Pédiatrie -- Périodiques; 618.9209751
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2018.03.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-5876

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To compare anatomical and functional outcomes of two passive transcutaneous bone conduction implant systems: Sophono™ and BAHA Attract™. Materials and methods: Twenty patients, affected by bilateral conductive hearing loss, underwent unilateral transcutaneous bone conduction implant surgery. Ten children received a Sophono™ implant (6 males, 4 females, mean age 11 years, mean unaided Pure Tone Average (PTA) 0.25-4kHz = 69.70dB HL) and 10 a BAHA Attract™ system (7 males, 3 females, mean age 19 years, mean unaided PTA0.25-4kHz = 66.40dB HL). The following outcomes were considered: incidence of local complications, hearing aid benefit, hearing aid gain and changes in quality of life (QOL), as measured by the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI). Results: One patient in the Sophono group experienced magnet-related skin decubitus, while two patients (one per group) had skin hyperemia in the area overlying the magnet. The mean BAHA-aided threshold was 23.70dB, whereas the mean Sophono-aided threshold was 31.60dB. The mean gain was significantly different for lower frequencies, the BAHA having better functional outcomes. All patients reported an improvement in their QOL. Conclusion: Given the lower thickness of the internal magnet, the Sophono™ system might be more suitable for younger children, whereas BAHA offered better functional results. Both systems can be considered valid and safe options for the functional rehabilitation of conductive hearing loss in children, provided that precautions are observed, such as a gradual use of the device and use of the least powerful magnets in the first months after the activation.