Re-tubing an Earmould v.1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Acoustic and Perceptual Effects of Re-tubing an Earmould
IRAS ID
255163
Contact name
Rebecca Mary Berry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bedford Hospital NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 14 days
Research summary
It is a widely accepted fact for Audiologists and hearing-aid users that earmoulds require re-tubing. Audiology Departments in the NHS do differ slightly on the recommended time frame but generally suggest re-tubing every 4-12 months. However, there does not appear to be any evidence supporting the benefits of regular re-tubing, and whether it should be done merely for practical purposes (for example preventing the tube splitting or snapping) or whether this can actually improve the acoustics of the sound, both physically and perceptually. This study aims to obtain data from Real-Ear-to-Coupler-Difference (RECD) measurements from both the old and new tube and compare the acoustic differences to determine whether an improvement does occur. Standardised speech will also be played to the participants both with the old and new tube, and they will be asked to state whether the sound quality is better, worse or no different. A lifestyle questionnaire will be utilised to determine whether some aspects relating to lifestyle (such as environmental factors, smoke and moisture) have an effect on the results, as well as other factors relating to the hearing aid itself (such as wearing time).
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/2055
Date of REC Opinion
22 Nov 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion