[Masking of tinnitus aurium by maskers and hearing aids (author's transl)].

Several studies in the U.S.A. have shown that tinnitus aurium can be reduced by use of maskers or hearing aids. Contrary to the noise of tinnitus, that produced by the masker or hearing aid is localised outside the ear and is less troublesome to most people. Comparing the benefits of both methods (masker against hearing aid) a study of 108 patients with tinnitus aurium was carried out. A group of 58 suitable patients were provided either with tinnitus maskers or with hearing aids for a few weeks. Satisfactory masking was achieved in about 50 per cent of those using hearing aids whereas this was achieved in only 10 per cent using tinnitus maskers.