Authors (including presenting author) :
Hau JPB (1)(2), Yeung CMD (1), Fung KY (2), Hui SC (2), Yeung WCZ (2)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Prince of Wales Hospital, New Territories East Cluster
(2) Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, United Christian Hospital and Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Kowloon East Cluster
Introduction :
Tinnitus, the perception of sound without an external stimulus, affects up to 20% of patients persistently, significantly impairing quality of life. Current treatment options, including sound-based and psychological therapies, have limitations in accessibility, cost, and efficacy. This pilot study explores the feasibility and acceptability of tinnitus masking therapy using high frequency broadband noise integrated into a mid to low frequency musical context. The therapy aims to mask tinnitus, alleviate distress, and improve quality of life, leveraging the emotional engagement of music to target the limbic system. The music is delivered via the HA-Go mobile application, the official app of the Hospital Authority, ensuring accessibility and convenience for patients.
Objectives :
To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of tinnitus masking therapy using high frequency broadband noise within a musical context.
Methodology :
This prospective, randomized controlled pilot study recruited 19 participants with subjective tinnitus from the ENT outpatient clinic at Prince of Wales Hospital. Participants were randomized into two groups: the music therapy group (receiving tailored musical tracks with integrated broadband noise) and the noise therapy group (receiving white or pink noise). The primary outcome measure was the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Secondary outcomes included the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and a satisfaction survey evaluating perceptions of therapy and the HA-Go mobile application used for delivery. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after three months of intervention.
Result & Outcome :
Of the 19 participants, 9 were in the music therapy group and 6 in the noise therapy group, with 4 lost to follow-up. The music therapy group demonstrated a significant improvement in THI scores, with a mean reduction of 10 points (p=0.028), compared to a 6-point reduction in the noise therapy group (not statistically significant). DASS-21 scores in the music therapy group showed trends of improvement in depression (1 point), anxiety (2 points), and stress (1.75 points), while the noise therapy group showed no improvement. Participants in the music therapy group reported high satisfaction with the HA-Go app (mean score: 9/10) and moderate satisfaction with the therapy (mean score: 6-7/10), noting its relaxing and sleep-enhancing effects. Compliance was satisfactory, with most participants using the therapy consistently.
Conclusion:
Tinnitus masking music therapy integrated with broadband noise shows promise as a safe, feasible, and effective intervention for reducing tinnitus severity and distress. Preliminary findings suggest that it may provide a more comprehensive management strategy for tinnitus patients, enhancing quality of life. The HA-Go mobile application, as the official app of the Hospital Authority, proved to be a user-friendly and accessible platform for delivering therapy. Further research with a larger sample size and longer follow-up is warranted to confirm these results.
