Abstract
Traumatic brain injury can impact the central auditory system leading to poor auditory
recall and increased difficulties hearing in poor acoustic environments. In recent
years, audiologists have increasingly encountered blast-exposed veterans who report
speech understanding problems that are disproportionate to their essentially normal
hearing sensitivity, and thus are thought to have an auditory processing disorder.
In light of studies showing frequency-modulated (FM) systems to be effective rehabilitation
for auditory processing difficulties, we examined the use of an FM system intervention
for blast-exposed veterans with functional hearing problems in the presence of normal
hearing sensitivity. The outcomes for three veterans who were provided with an FM
system as part of a multisite randomized clinical trial are described. Data indicate
that FM systems are beneficial for some patients reporting hearing problems in the
presence of normal hearing sensitivity but factors other than audiometric profile
and reported complaints influence outcome. These include understanding of speech in
noise, patient communication demands, auditory lifestyle, and the presence of posttraumatic
stress disorder or other mental health factors. Furthermore, education (and reeducation
if necessary) of the patient and their spouse or family is critical to successful
outcome.
Keywords
Traumatic brain injury - rehabilitation - auditory processing disorder - assistive
devices - case reports
