Name of the Procedure:

Hearing Aid, BiCROS, In the Ear (HCPCS Code: V5210)

Common name(s):

• BiCROS Hearing Aid
• In-the-Ear BiCROS System

Technical or medical terms:

• Bilateral Contralateral Routing of Signal Hearing Aid System

Summary

A BiCROS hearing aid is an advanced type of hearing aid designed to assist individuals with hearing loss in one ear (unaidable) and limited hearing in the other ear. The device captures sounds from the unaidable ear and directs them to the ear with better hearing, providing a more balanced auditory experience.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems it Addresses:

• Unilateral hearing loss (significant hearing loss in one ear)
• Asymmetrical hearing loss (different levels of hearing loss in each ear)

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• Improve overall hearing capability by compensating for the unaidable ear
• Enhance the user’s ability to understand speech, especially in noisy environments
• Provide a more natural and balanced perception of sound

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Severe to profound hearing loss in one ear
• Moderate to severe hearing loss in the other ear

Patient Criteria:

• Individuals who have been evaluated and diagnosed by an audiologist
• Patients who find traditional hearing aids insufficient due to their type of hearing loss

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Hearing evaluation by an audiologist
• Discussion about patient's hearing needs and lifestyle
• Possible trial period with different hearing aids to determine suitability

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:

• Comprehensive hearing test (audiogram)
• Medical examination of the ears to rule out any underlying conditions

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Assessment and Molding: An audiologist performs a detailed hearing assessment and takes an impression of the ear to create a custom-fit hearing aid.
2. Manufacturing: The mold is sent to a specialized lab to manufacture the BiCROS hearing aid.
3. Fitting: Once the device is ready, the audiologist fits it to the patient’s ear, adjusts the settings, and ensures it is comfortable and functional.
4. Training: The patient receives training on how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot the hearing aid.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• Custom ear mold materials
• Hearing aid fitting software
• Audiometric testing equipment

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable

Duration

• The entire process from assessment to fitting can take from 2-4 weeks. However, the fitting appointment itself usually takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

• Audiology clinic or hearing center

Personnel

• Audiologist
• Hearing aid specialist

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Initial discomfort or irritation in the ear
• Difficulty adjusting to the new sound perception

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions to materials used in the ear mold

Possible Complications:

• Device malfunction or feedback noise
• Need for frequent adjustments

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Improved hearing in various environments
• Better speech understanding and communication
• Enhanced overall quality of life

Realization of Benefits:

• Most users start noticing significant improvements within a few days to weeks of consistent use.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care and Instructions:

• Regular cleaning and maintenance of the hearing aid
• Follow-up visits with the audiologist for adjustments and assessments

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate use after fitting, with ongoing adaptation over a few weeks

Restrictions or Follow-Up Appointments:

• Initial follow-up within one month
• Regular semi-annual or annual check-ups

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Traditional hearing aids (for those with less severe unilateral hearing loss)
• Cochlear implants (for severe bilateral hearing loss)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Traditional Hearing Aids:

  • Pros: Can be effective for bilateral mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • Cons: May not be suitable for severe unilateral hearing loss.

• Cochlear Implants:

  • Pros: Suitable for severe hearing loss in both ears.
  • Cons: More invasive, higher cost, longer recovery time.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The fitting process is painless; patients may feel slight pressure during the ear mold impression.

After the Procedure:

• Initial period of adjustment to new sounds
• Some may experience mild irritation or feedback which usually resolves with adjustments

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Patients are encouraged to report any discomfort for immediate resolution by the audiologist.