Which type of fitting uses venting to minimize occlusion effects?

The type of fitting that uses venting to minimize occlusion effects is the Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) style. This type of hearing aid design allows for the incorporation of vents, which help to reduce the feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, commonly known as the occlusion effect. Venting creates an opening that lets natural sound into the ear, which can improve the overall auditory perception for the user.

In a RIC fitting, the receiver is located in the ear canal, while the electronics are housed behind the ear. This configuration not only provides a discreet appearance but also allows for effective venting options. The use of venting in this style enhances comfort by decreasing the amplification of low-frequency sounds that can lead to the occlusion effect.

Other styles, such as in-the-ear (ITE) and completely-in-canal (CIC) designs, do have some venting options but may be more limited in size, which can restrict their venting capability compared to the RIC design. Thin-tube fittings, while they can also accommodate venting and are similar to RICs in some aspects, are typically referring to air-conduction hearing aids that rely mainly on tubing rather than the RIC’s receiver placement and design