Influence of contralateral routing of signals on sound localization on adult males with single sided deafness

Abstract

Single-sided deafness (SSD) is a situation of profound hearing loss on one side, with normal contralateral or proximal hearing. SSD presents a  myriad of unique and specific listening challenges, sound localization, and speech intelligibility in background noise with a great risk to quality of life and social development. The objective of the paper was to determine the influence of Contralateral Routing of Signals (CROS) on sound localization adult males with SSD in Lagos State, Nigeria. The evaluation process consisted of an application of a checklist, the conduction of conventional clinical audiological evaluation and sound localization using the Spatial Hearing Questionnaire as well as the Bern Benefit in Single Sided  Questionnaire. A significant positive gain in sound localization and auditory performance was observed through effective use of CROS. The study
concluded that effective deployment and usage of CROS can efficiently improve the auditory performances and enhance the quality of life of individuals with SSD.

Keywords: Single-sided deafness, contralateral routing of signals, sound localization, auditory performance