Acoustic Trauma and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (2023 AMW)
2023 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO Experience
In this panel, our experts will discuss and review acute Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and acoustic trauma, in particular, how it relates to military members and populations routinely exposed to acoustic trauma. We will review how standard hearing conservation surveillance programs characterize hearing changes by capturing auditory changes in noise exposed populations. In addition, we will review the development of therapeutics for diverse hearing and balance indications related to NIHL. We will discuss the science of auditory medicines, summarize the clinical testing process and the pathway for investigational medicines; briefly review ongoing and completed clinical trials; and share specific messaging for patients regarding possible treatment options for acute NIHL. We will review and discuss the acoustic trauma protocol. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is defined as temporary or permanent sensorineural hearing loss from high-intensity continuous or impulse acoustic insults. In the military population, routine exposure to blast or firearms discharge during training and/or combat makes hearing loss one of the most prevalent Department of Defense (DOD) disabilities. More broadly, NIHL is the most common occupational disability, impacting 16% of the world’s population. Tinnitus and cognitive impairment are secondary effects, which can cause substantial disruption to the patient. Despite hearing protection device (HPD) requirements within occupational hearing loss prevention programs, the prevalence of NIHL remains stubbornly high.
Credits
CME:1.0, MOC:1.0