Brain scans reveal secrets of hearing in noise for implant users

NCT ID NCT06860152

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Craig D. Workman, PhD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses PET scans to watch brain activity while people with cochlear implants try to understand speech in background noise. Researchers want to pinpoint which brain regions help make sense of sound in challenging listening situations. The study includes 120 cochlear implant users and 30 people with normal hearing, all adults aged 18 to 99.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal which brain areas help cochlear implant users understand speech in noise, guiding future improvements in implant design or therapy.
What could go wrong: This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead directly to any new therapy or device, and results may not apply to all implant users.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HEARING LOSS, ADULT-ONSET are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Deafness hearing loss disorder presbycusis Speech Intelligibility

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEARING LOSS, ADULT-ONSET HEARING LOSS, EXTREME SPEECH INTELLIGIBILITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Iowa
RECRUITING

Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

More trials for these conditions

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