Name of the Procedure:

Hearing Aid, Contralateral Routing System, Binaural, BTE/BTE
Common names: Bi-CROS System, Bi-CROS Hearing Aid
Technical/medical term: Binaural Behind-The-Ear, Contralateral Routing of Signals

Summary

A hearing aid with a contralateral routing system helps individuals with asymmetrical hearing loss by transferring sounds from the poorer ear to the better hearing ear using behind-the-ear (BTE) devices on both ears. This setup allows for improved awareness and localization of sounds in various environments.

Purpose

The procedure addresses patients with significant hearing loss in one ear and better hearing in the opposite ear. Goals:

• Enhance overall hearing ability
• Improve sound localization
• Enable better communication in noisy environments

Indications

• Unilateral hearing loss
• Severe asymmetrical hearing loss
• Single-sided deafness (SSD)
• Difficulty in hearing despite using a standard hearing aid

Preparation

• Patients may need a comprehensive audiometric evaluation.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required.
• Assessment by an audiologist to determine suitability.

Procedure Description

1. The audiologist performs a hearing test.
2. Audiometric data is used to program the hearing devices accordingly.
3. BTE devices are fitted behind each ear.
4. The device on the poorer ear picks up sounds and transmits them wirelessly to the device on the better hearing ear.
5. The audiologist adjusts settings for optimal sound quality and comfort.
6. Patients receive instructions on device usage and maintenance.

Duration

• Initial fitting and setup take approximately 1-2 hours.
• Follow-up appointments for adjustments may vary in length.

Setting

• Audiology clinic or outpatient hearing center

Personnel

• Audiologist
• Hearing aid specialist

Risks and Complications

• Common: Initial discomfort, feedback noise, or hearing aid malfunction
• Rare: Ear infections or allergic reaction to the device materials
• Management: Regular follow-ups, skilled adjustments, and proper hygiene practices

Benefits

• Improved ability to hear and locate sounds
• Enhanced communication in various settings
• Immediate effects typically noticeable upon proper fitting

Recovery

• No physical recovery period required.
• Adjustments over several weeks to ensure optimal comfort and performance.
• Follow-up appointments for maintenance and further tuning.

Alternatives

• Traditional hearing aids (may not be effective for unilateral hearing loss)
• Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA)
• Cochlear implants (more invasive, suitable for specific cases)
• Pros and cons: BTE contralateral systems are non-invasive and relatively quick to set up compared to surgical options like cochlear implants.

Patient Experience

• During procedure: Minimal discomfort during fitting, non-invasive
• After procedure: Period of adjustment to new hearing experience, potential temporary discomfort
• Pain management: None required, but regular consultations for adjustments can enhance comfort and effectiveness