Neuromonicsa™ tinnitus treatment: Preliminary experience in a private practice setting

Educational Objective: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants should be able to identify the principles behind the Neuromonics™ Tinnitus Treatment (NTT) and understand its strengths and potential shortfalls. Objectives: To describe the preliminary experience and efficacy of the NTT in an independent, non-industry sponsored private otology practice clinical study Study Design: Case series with retrospective chart review and postintervention quality of life questionnaire Methods: Tinnitus Reaction Questionnaire (TRQ) scores, and awareness and disturbance scores, were obtained pre- and post-treatment. A post treatment questionnaire based on the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) was conducted over the telephone. Results: Eleven patients had completed the six-month program at the time of the study. Nine of the eleven patients completing therapy were considered highly suitable. TRQ scores were universally improved (ranging from a 3 to 78% decrease in the TRQ score). However, only two of the seven (29%) had achieved a decrease in the TRQ score by 40% or more. Seven of ten patients (70%), and four of ten (40%) patients reported a reduction in the percentage of the time they were aware of and disturbed by their tinnitus, respectively. Eight of ten patients (80%) exhibited positive scores on the GBI (mean 17.39, median 7.81, range -3.1 to 67.6). When asked whether they thought the device was worth the cost, responses were divided equally between positive and negative responses. Conclusion: Neuromonics™ Tinnitus Treatment appears to be a practical and promising treatment for tinnitus.