Evaluation of the ClearVoice Strategy in Adults Using HiResolution Fidelity 120 Sound Processing.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of ClearVoice strategy on speech perception in noise and in everyday listening situations in Cantonese-speaking cochlear implant users.


METHODS
Twelve experienced adult users of the Harmony implant and HiRes 120 sound processing participated in the study. The study employed a prospective within-subjects design wherein speech recognition in adults using HiRes 120 without ClearVoice turned on (control option) was compared to their performance with HiRes 120 with ClearVoice turned on. Each subject was evaluated with two different ClearVoice gain settings: -12 dB (ClearVoice medium) and -18 dB (ClearVoice high) after one-week of use. The Cantonese hearing in noise test and a questionnaire were used as the outcome measures.


RESULTS
Subjects performed significantly better with ClearVoice medium than with control option in noise. No significant difference in performance was noted among the 3 settings in quiet. Most subjects reported high level of satisfaction with ClearVoice in daily listening situations and preferred to keep ClearVoice on.


CONCLUSIONS
ClearVoice can help cochlear implant recipients to hear better in noise.
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Human Communicative Research, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
Anna Chi Shan
AC
Kam
Iris Hoi Yee
IH
Ng
Margaret Man Yi
MM
Cheng
Terence Ka Cheong
TK
Wong
Michael Chi Fai
MC
Tong