ABI RESEARCH STUDY
A clinical research study of patients who have an auditory brainstem implant (ABI) is being conducted jointly by researchers at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Harvard Medical School. We will use specialized hearing testing to better understand how your brain responds to stimulation from your ABI.
What will the study involve?
All testing will be done at MEEI. If you are enrolled as a study patient, we will conduct a review of your medical records as well as perform specialized hearing testing using your ABI. Each session will last no more than 2 hours at a time. A minimum of two, and up to eight sessions will be required for each participant. The testing is not painful or uncomfortable.
How many visits will the study require?
A minimum of two sessions is required. This can be performed over a two day period on a single visit to Boston. Alternatively, some patients may elect to stay longer and undergo several sessions over a longer period of time. Some patients may be asked to return after their initial session. The number of sessions that are required for each patient will be determined on a case by case basis.
If I am also being seen at the MGH NF2 clinic, how can I participate in the ABI study?
We will be able to to schedule a research session around your trips to the MGH NF2 clinic. In the event that you are already traveling to Boston for your visit with Dr Plotkin, we will reimburse you for any additional accomodations in a local hotel that are required to complete your participation in the ABI research study.
Am I a candidate for the study?
If you had an ABI placed, you are a potential candidate for the study. Nonusers of the ABI are also candidates provided that the device is still functional.
Are there potential benefits?
We hope to use this information in the future to help develop new ABI technology.
Will I be compensated?
Yes. Compensation will be provided for travel and lodging expenses for the ABI user and a traveling companion, if needed. You will also receive a small honorarium.
I am an ABI patient and I am interested in being considered as a candidate for the research study at MEEI, what do I do now?
If you would like to learn more about the study and are interested in being considered as a candidate, please fill out these two forms and forward them to us:
