Tinnitus Suppression with Threshold and Subthreshold Sound Stimuli
Burkhard Franz (a) and George Offutt (b)
(a) Tinnitus Research and Balance Clinic, Wantirna, Australia, and (b) Center
for Sensory Processes, Green Lane, Pennsylvania

Abstract:
In this preliminary report, we present the results from our investigation of 34
tinnitus patients for tinnitus suppression with frequency-specific sound
stimuli  within the auditory spectrum. Of this number, 22 (64.7%) experienced
suppression,  5 (14.7%) had partial suppression, and 7 (20.6%) were
nonresponders. Suppression  of peripheral tinnitus may result when
mechanosensitive outer hair cells are recruited  by sound stimuli that can
remain at subthreshold level. The suppression mechanism  is possibly explained
by the electromodel of the auditory system. This physiological  model could be
the basis of tinnitus suppression therapy in which a low-intensity,
frequency-specific and tinnitus-suppressing sound stimulus is introduced
instead  of a wide-band masking noise.

Murray Grossan, M.D.
http://www.ent-consult.com
http://www.hydromedonline.com
http://www.tinnnitusrelief.net
http://www.hydromedonline.com/presentingthehydropulse/