SRS206 - BAHA in practice: a retrospective review of 490 patients assessed for a BAHA device over a 10 year period: patient eligibility and quality of life analysis

Abstract Background Bone anchored hearing devices have been utilised in clinical practice in SIVUH since 2013. These devices are beneficial for patients with conductive hearing loss who are not suitable candidates for conventional hearing aids. This study aims to evaluate all patients referred for assessment to the BAHA unit for eligibility and quality-of-life outcomes following BAHA implantation. Methods A retrospective review was conducted at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, examining patient charts and theatre records from 2014 to 2025. Data for BAHA eligibility was recorded including audiological and patient centred criteria. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed between 2023 and 2025 using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) to evaluate functional benefit and quality-of-life changes following BAHA implantation. Results 490 patients were assessed for BAHA eligibility. Of these, 238 proceeded to implantation, and 252 were deemed unsuitable for the procedure. Quality of life outcomes were measured for patients implanted from 2023 onwards, 30 patients completed the GBI. Analysis demonstrated improvements in quality of life among recipients in the post operative period. Conclusions BAHA implantation can provide significant quality-of-life benefits for appropriately selected patients. However, more than half of those assessed were unsuitable. Careful preoperative selection ensures BAHA implantation delivers meaningful quality-of-life benefits.