A 60-year-old patient with bilateral mild-to-moderate high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss is being fitted with hearing aids. Regarding hearing aid selection, receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids have what advantage over traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) aids?
- A Improved high-frequency amplification with reduced occlusion effect ✓
- B Greater power output suitable for profound hearing loss
- C Complete invisibility with no external components
- D No requirement for custom earmolds in all cases
Correct answer: A. Improved high-frequency amplification with reduced occlusion effect
Explanation
RIC (receiver-in-canal) hearing aids place the loudspeaker (receiver) directly in the ear canal, connected to the BTE unit by a thin wire. This design results in improved high-frequency sound delivery due to short signal path, reduced occlusion effect (since the ear canal is only partially blocked allowing natural low-frequency sound to enter), and cosmetically superior appearance. They are ideal for high-frequency sloping losses. They have lower power output than power BTE aids, so are unsuitable for profound loss.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.