125 4.2 Longitudinal study of use of ADHEAR 4.1 Limitation The current study reports on long term outcomes of consecutive 82 children provided with the adhesive retained bone conduction system between 2015 and July 2019 and although retrospective in its data collection method the quality of information gathered was considered comprehensive as all patients’ records were identifiable and complications recording were complete. Retrospective studies, however, are limited to the nature of missing data. In addition, the length of follow-up ranges from 9 months to 4.5 years and it is possible with a longer follow up compliance may decrease. The absence of uniform standard for review of quality-of-life indicators was also limitation for the current study, with a positive impact being inferred from continued use of the hearing system rather than numerically demonstrated with the application of GCBI or LAS. This is a possible area to include in further research from this centre. 5. Conclusion The adhesive retained bone conducting aid produces comparable audiological results to other conventional bone conduction hearing aid options. It provides an excellent alternative in the treatment of conductive hearing loss without the possible complications and costs of a surgical intervention. A compliance rate of 87.8% of all children fitted with the adhesive system demonstrated a high level of patient satisfaction. The device may also provide an appropriate steppingstone to implantable options once a child reaches the age in which an autonomous decision can be made regarding permanent implantation. Limitations of the adhesive device include the variability in the longevity of the adhesive adaptor. Interference with head scarves, hats and glasses and low frequency minimal transient skin reactions reported. Declaration of competing interest No authors involved with the paper have any actual or potential conflict of interest including any financial, personal or other relationships with other people or organizations that could inappropriately influence, or be perceived to influence, their work. The sound processors used in this study were supplied by MED-EL. All research and analysis were undertaken by BCH independently. Role of funding source No person or institution provided financial support to conduct or prepare this article or research. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
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