EBP Compendium: Summary of Systematic Review
Agence d'Evaluation des Technologies et des Modes d'Intervention en Sante
Efficacy of Directional-Microphone Hearing Aids
Bergeron, F.
(2003).
AETMIS, 03-03.
Indicators of Review Quality:
|
The review addresses a clearly focused question
| No |
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Criteria for inclusion of studies are provided
| No |
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Search strategy is described in sufficient detail for replication
| Yes |
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Included studies are assessed for study quality
| Yes |
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Quality assessments are reproducible
| Yes |
Description: This is a systematic review of studies investigating the efficacy of directional hearing aids in individuals with hearing loss.
Question(s) Addressed:
Question not specifically stated.
Population: Not stated
Intervention/Assessment: Directional microphone hearing aids.
Number of Studies Included: 17
Years Included: 1990 - May 2002
Findings:
Conclusions:
Results indicate a positive speech-in-noise benefit for hearing aids with directional microphones. The benefit is maximized in ideal listening situations (in which the noise source is behind the user and the speaker is in front of the user). Evidence suggests that in typical environments (in which noise in non-localized) directional microphones perform comparatively with conventional omnidirectional hearing aids.
Keywords: Directional Microphones, Hearing Aids
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Added to Compendium: December 2011