[Evaluation of the tinnitus retraining therapy as combined with a cognitive behavioral group therapy]

Abstract

Background: The study evaluates the effectiveness of a Tinnitus Retraining Therapy as combined with a cognitive behavioral group therapy.

Patients and methods: 95 patients suffering from chronic tinnitus (mean age 49,3 years) were included. 16 of these 95 participants served as a waiting list control group. The participants were divided into 3 treatment groups. Group 1 was fitted with wideband noise generators, group 2 with hearing aids. The 3rd group was not supplied with any device. After a detailed audiological and psychological examination and tinnitus counseling all patients took part in a cognitive behavioral therapy for a period of 3 months.

Results: 64,5% of our patients improved significantly after the initial group therapy. In contrast, the patients of the waiting list control group showed no significant improvement. This initial treatment effect could be maintained over the period of control. We were unable to show significant advantages of noise generators as compared to cognitive behavioural group therapy alone.

Conclusion: The Tinnitus Retraining Therapy combined with a cognitive behavioral group therapy is an effective treatment in patients with chronic tinnitus.