Custom cochlear implant tuning based on ear shape may boost hearing

NCT ID NCT05451628

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether programming a cochlear implant based on each person's unique inner ear structure improves hearing compared to the standard one-size-fits-all approach. Adults with severe to profound hearing loss who already have a MED-EL cochlear implant will receive both types of programming and have their speech recognition tested. The goal is to see if matching the implant's frequency settings to the natural layout of the cochlea leads to better sound perception.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Anatomy-based cochlear implant fitting (device programming)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could make cochlear implants work better for each person, potentially improving speech understanding in quiet and noisy settings.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The new fitting method may not provide a meaningful benefit over standard care.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Hearing Loss, Sensorineural sensorineural hearing loss disorder X-linked mixed hearing loss with perilymphatic gusher

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Antwerp University Hopsital

    RECRUITING

    Antwerp, 2650, Belgium

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • University Hospital Brussels

    RECRUITING

    Brussels, Brussels Capital, 1090, Belgium

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••