Validity and reliability study of three tinnitus self-assessment scales: loudness, annoyance and change.

Conclusions: The three tinnitus self-rating scales described herein can be employed as part of "minimal datasets" to reflect the patient's current tinnitus status. These tests are simple and easy to use and can be completed by the patient alone. The results are easy to interpret and provide a good foundation for an effective doctor-patient dialogue.

Phase III results with a totally implantable piezoelectric middle ear implant: speech audiometry, spatial hearing and psychosocial adjustment.

Objective: To evaluate the treatment efficacy of an electromechanical middle ear amplifier implant (AI) in patients with chronic moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The AI is a piezoelectric system with a sound processor and a rechargeable battery within a hermetically sealed titanium canister. Its titanium-sealed microphone is placed in the bony region of the ear canal.

The influence of early speech rehabilitation with voice prostheses on the psychological state of laryngectomized patients.

This survey assessed how early speech rehabilitation influences the emotional state and psychological adjustment of 43 male laryngectomy patients, at three different chronological stages. The first assessment occurred 2-3 days before the operation. The patients filled out a stress questionnaire (SVF) which assessed coping strategies.