From our “How to” July 2012 Edition
Patients with single-sided deafness experience unique listening difficulties. Among these are spatial orientation (see above left diagram) and masking effects of noise (right diagram). The worst of these is the latter, when the noise source is masking the better ear and lowering the capabilities of understanding even more.
Managing both concerns is best achieved through the fitting of a Wireless CROS/BiCROS system, such as via, offered by audifon. The CROS (Contralateral Routing of Signals) is utilized when a patient presents with one unaidable ear and the other with normal hearing. The BiCROS (Bilateral Contralateral Routing of Signals) is utilized when a patient presents with one unaidable ear and one with hearing loss appropriate for amplification.
Solutions by audifon
With via, audifon offers a wireless solution to overcome the listening stumbling blocks involved with single-sided deafness. No longer does the patient need to worry about wires connecting the two devices. audifon utilizes NFMI wireless technology, which allows for real-time streaming of the audio signal. With a Transmitter (Tx) on the unaidable ear and the Receiver (Rx) on the normal or amplification appropriate ear, via is able to strongly affect the listening situations where single-sided deafness typically causes the most concern.
via systems support different receiver/transmitter combinations to accomplish the best solution for each patient’s needs. For example, the slim via S BTE can transmit to a powerful via M receiver, or an ITE/BTE combination can be utilized. After programming the individual via Rx/Tx combination with audifit fitting software, the NFMI solution is ready to stream the signal, and the two devices are now connected for simple adjustments by the patient. Visit www.audiologyonline.com/channels/audifon.asp to learn more about audifon’s via-Wireless CROS/BiCROS solutions.
audifon USA Inc
Debary, Fla; (800) 776-0222
www.audifon.com
