Are results of tinnitus retraining therapy maintained over time? 18-month follow-up after completion of therapy.

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) is a useful treatment for tinnitus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results obtained after 18 months of TRT as well as 18 months after completion of therapy, i.e. 36 months after initiation of TRT. Forty-five subjects suffering from an idiopathic tinnitus with or without hyperacusis for at least 6 months were recruited. There were significant improvements during therapy (p < 0.001) and the mean Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) was lowered by more than 20 points. These improvements persisted 18 months after treatment completion. Furthermore, the percentage of patients reporting the disappearance of their difficulties in various activities (relaxation, concentration, sleep, social relations and work) increased continuously after treatment completion. TRT improved self-perceived disability induced by chronic tinnitus for a long time after the end of therapy.