Managing Occlusion - Cochlear Nucleus 7 Hybrid Mode Professionals Manual

Managing occlusion

Occlusion is often described by the patient as:
• sounding like their head is inside a bucket
• sounding like they are speaking into a tunnel
• having a bad perception of their own voice
• feeling like acoustic stimulation is becoming unbearable.
NOTE
An initial feeling of occlusion may occur when the system is first fitted or the program is
changed. This usually subsides after a few days of use. Occlusion is less likely to happen
with domes.
PROBLEM
The recipient experiences
a 'boomy' sound quality,
also known as a 'head in
bucket/barrel' effect.
The recipient experiences
an 'echo' effect when
speaking.
NUCLEUS® 7 HYBRID MODE PROFESSIONALS GUIDE
POSSIBLE CAUSE
Occlusion is caused by a
dome blocking the ear,
with sound amplified in
the ear canal.
Occlusion is caused by
the frequency gain
response of the Hybrid
system.
TEST / RESOLUTION
Change to a dome with a larger vent or
decrease the low frequency gain for
high level sounds.
Reduce the gain in the lower frequency
channels. Check sound quality
adjustments with and without electrical
stimulation to ensure the overall sound
quality is comfortable.
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