Hearing Aids Performance in Hypobaric Environments

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: High altitudes imply exposure to a decreased ambient air pressure. Such a situation may also alter the performance of acoustic transducers using vibrating diaphragms due to air rarefaction. This study aimed at analyzing the performance at high altitude of hearing aids (HAs) where mechano-electric and electro-mechanic transducers are used. METHODS: A hypobaric chamber was used to perform two separated experimental sessions. In the first one two commercial models of HAs were exposed to a simulated altitude of 25,000 ft (7620 m) and to a subsequent rapid decompression profile, with a rapid climb (< 3 s) from 8000 (2438 m) to 25,000 ft. The second session separately analyzed the performance of microphone and receiver at an altitude of 9000 and 15,000 ft (2743 and 4572 m). Before and after the first session, the HAs were tested with an electronic ear while a dedicated recording system was used in the second session. RESULTS: No HA damage or dysfunction was detected during the first session. In the second one, the microphone showed a mild decrease of its output, while the receiver exhibited a much higher reduction of its output. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the safe use of HAs even under extreme environmental pressure changes. For altitudes exceeding 10,000 ft (3048 m), a recalibration of the HAs output via a dedicated program may be suggested. Lucertini M, Sanjust F, Manca R, Cerini L, Lucertini L, Sisto R. Hearing aids performance in hypobaric environments. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(9):738743.