1.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Assessment and Treatment Outcome Evaluation: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Oak-Sung CHOO ; Jung Mee PARK ; Euyhyun PARK ; Jiwon CHANG ; Min Young LEE ; Ho Yun LEE ; In Seok MOON ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; Hyun Joon SHIM ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Hyun SEO
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(7):e93-
Background:
Tinnitus is a multifactorial condition with no universally accepted assessment guidelines. The Korean Tinnitus Study Group previously established consensus statements on the definition, classification, and diagnostic tests for tinnitus. As a continuation of this effort, this study aims to establish expert consensus on tinnitus assessment and treatment outcome evaluation, specifically tailored to the Korean clinical context.
Methods:
A modified Delphi method involving 26 otology experts from across Korea was used. A two-round Delphi survey was conducted to evaluate statements related to tinnitus assessment before and after treatment. Statements were rated on a scale of 1 to 9 for the level of agreement. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement (score of 7–9) and ≤ 15% disagreement (score of 1–3). Statistical measures such as content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance (W) were calculated to assess agreement levels.
Results:
Of the 46 assessment-related statements, 17 (37%) reached consensus, though overall pre-treatment assessments showed weak agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.319). Key areas of agreement included the use of the visual analogue scale, numeric rating scale, and validated questionnaires for pre-treatment evaluation. Five statements, such as the use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography for diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus, achieved over 90% agreement. For treatment outcome measurements, 8 of 12 statements (67%) reached a consensus, with moderate agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.513). Validated questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests were recommended for evaluating treatment effects within 12 weeks. While standardized imaging for pulsatile tinnitus and additional clinical tests were strongly recommended, full consensus was not achieved across all imaging modalities.
Conclusion
This study provides actionable recommendations for tinnitus assessment and treatment evaluation, emphasizing the use of standardized tools and individualized approaches based on patient needs. These findings offer a practical framework to enhance consistency and effectiveness in tinnitus management within Korean clinical settings.
2.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Treatment: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Junhui JEONG ; Ho Yun LEE ; Oak-Sung CHOO ; Hantai KIM ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Jae-Hyun SEO ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; In Seok MOON ; Hyun Joon SHIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(18):e75-
Background:
Tinnitus is a bothersome condition associated with various mechanisms of action. Although treatment methods vary according to these mechanisms, standardized guidelines would benefit both patients and clinicians. We conducted a Delphi study, a method that collects expert opinions through multiple rounds of questionnaires, to reach a consensus on tinnitus treatment with professional experts.
Methods:
A two-round modified Delphi survey was conducted to develop a clinical consensus on tinnitus treatment. The experts scored each statement on a scale of 1 (highest disagreement) to 9 (highest agreement) for their level of agreement on tinnitus treatment.Consensus was defined when 75% or more of the participants scored 7–9, and 15% or less scored 1–3. To ensure reliability of the responses, the content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance were evaluated.
Results:
Approximately 19 of 31 statements reached a consensus. All 3 statements reached a consensus regarding the candidates for treatment. Regarding treatment, 3 of 8 statements on medication, 2 of 2 statements on tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and 5 of 7 statements on auditory rehabilitation reached a positive consensus. Although all 6 statements regarding miscellaneous treatment reached a consensus, most were negatively agreed. For treatment with neuromodulation, none of the 5 statements reached a consensus.
Conclusion
The experts reached a high level of consensus on treatment candidates, tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and auditory rehabilitation in this modified Delphi study. The results of this study can provide beneficial and practical information for clinicians regarding the treatment of tinnitus.
3.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Assessment and Treatment Outcome Evaluation: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Oak-Sung CHOO ; Jung Mee PARK ; Euyhyun PARK ; Jiwon CHANG ; Min Young LEE ; Ho Yun LEE ; In Seok MOON ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; Hyun Joon SHIM ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Hyun SEO
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(7):e93-
Background:
Tinnitus is a multifactorial condition with no universally accepted assessment guidelines. The Korean Tinnitus Study Group previously established consensus statements on the definition, classification, and diagnostic tests for tinnitus. As a continuation of this effort, this study aims to establish expert consensus on tinnitus assessment and treatment outcome evaluation, specifically tailored to the Korean clinical context.
Methods:
A modified Delphi method involving 26 otology experts from across Korea was used. A two-round Delphi survey was conducted to evaluate statements related to tinnitus assessment before and after treatment. Statements were rated on a scale of 1 to 9 for the level of agreement. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement (score of 7–9) and ≤ 15% disagreement (score of 1–3). Statistical measures such as content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance (W) were calculated to assess agreement levels.
Results:
Of the 46 assessment-related statements, 17 (37%) reached consensus, though overall pre-treatment assessments showed weak agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.319). Key areas of agreement included the use of the visual analogue scale, numeric rating scale, and validated questionnaires for pre-treatment evaluation. Five statements, such as the use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography for diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus, achieved over 90% agreement. For treatment outcome measurements, 8 of 12 statements (67%) reached a consensus, with moderate agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.513). Validated questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests were recommended for evaluating treatment effects within 12 weeks. While standardized imaging for pulsatile tinnitus and additional clinical tests were strongly recommended, full consensus was not achieved across all imaging modalities.
Conclusion
This study provides actionable recommendations for tinnitus assessment and treatment evaluation, emphasizing the use of standardized tools and individualized approaches based on patient needs. These findings offer a practical framework to enhance consistency and effectiveness in tinnitus management within Korean clinical settings.
4.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Treatment: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Junhui JEONG ; Ho Yun LEE ; Oak-Sung CHOO ; Hantai KIM ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Jae-Hyun SEO ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; In Seok MOON ; Hyun Joon SHIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(18):e75-
Background:
Tinnitus is a bothersome condition associated with various mechanisms of action. Although treatment methods vary according to these mechanisms, standardized guidelines would benefit both patients and clinicians. We conducted a Delphi study, a method that collects expert opinions through multiple rounds of questionnaires, to reach a consensus on tinnitus treatment with professional experts.
Methods:
A two-round modified Delphi survey was conducted to develop a clinical consensus on tinnitus treatment. The experts scored each statement on a scale of 1 (highest disagreement) to 9 (highest agreement) for their level of agreement on tinnitus treatment.Consensus was defined when 75% or more of the participants scored 7–9, and 15% or less scored 1–3. To ensure reliability of the responses, the content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance were evaluated.
Results:
Approximately 19 of 31 statements reached a consensus. All 3 statements reached a consensus regarding the candidates for treatment. Regarding treatment, 3 of 8 statements on medication, 2 of 2 statements on tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and 5 of 7 statements on auditory rehabilitation reached a positive consensus. Although all 6 statements regarding miscellaneous treatment reached a consensus, most were negatively agreed. For treatment with neuromodulation, none of the 5 statements reached a consensus.
Conclusion
The experts reached a high level of consensus on treatment candidates, tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and auditory rehabilitation in this modified Delphi study. The results of this study can provide beneficial and practical information for clinicians regarding the treatment of tinnitus.
5.Radiological Considerations in Diagnosing Angiosarcoma Associated With Lymphedema Following Breast Cancer Surgery
Eun Jung CHOI ; Gwang Min CHAE ; Jinyong SHIN ; Si-Gyun ROH ; Nae-Ho LEE
Journal of Breast Cancer 2025;28(2):119-124
Angiosarcoma associated with lymphedema is a rare soft tissue malignancy that occurs owing to chronic lymphedema, primarily following breast cancer surgery. We present a case of an 83-year-old female who developed angiosarcoma 14 years after undergoing breast cancer surgery. Diagnosis was confirmed through excisional biopsy, histopathological evaluation, and imaging. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse dermal thickening with an enhanced subcutaneous nodular lesion on the right arm. This unusual case emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients with chronic lymphedema post-breast cancer surgery, as early radiologic and clinical detection can facilitate timely intervention and improve outcomes.
6.Radiological Considerations in Diagnosing Angiosarcoma Associated With Lymphedema Following Breast Cancer Surgery
Eun Jung CHOI ; Gwang Min CHAE ; Jinyong SHIN ; Si-Gyun ROH ; Nae-Ho LEE
Journal of Breast Cancer 2025;28(2):119-124
Angiosarcoma associated with lymphedema is a rare soft tissue malignancy that occurs owing to chronic lymphedema, primarily following breast cancer surgery. We present a case of an 83-year-old female who developed angiosarcoma 14 years after undergoing breast cancer surgery. Diagnosis was confirmed through excisional biopsy, histopathological evaluation, and imaging. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse dermal thickening with an enhanced subcutaneous nodular lesion on the right arm. This unusual case emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients with chronic lymphedema post-breast cancer surgery, as early radiologic and clinical detection can facilitate timely intervention and improve outcomes.
7.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Assessment and Treatment Outcome Evaluation: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Oak-Sung CHOO ; Jung Mee PARK ; Euyhyun PARK ; Jiwon CHANG ; Min Young LEE ; Ho Yun LEE ; In Seok MOON ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; Hyun Joon SHIM ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Hyun SEO
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(7):e93-
Background:
Tinnitus is a multifactorial condition with no universally accepted assessment guidelines. The Korean Tinnitus Study Group previously established consensus statements on the definition, classification, and diagnostic tests for tinnitus. As a continuation of this effort, this study aims to establish expert consensus on tinnitus assessment and treatment outcome evaluation, specifically tailored to the Korean clinical context.
Methods:
A modified Delphi method involving 26 otology experts from across Korea was used. A two-round Delphi survey was conducted to evaluate statements related to tinnitus assessment before and after treatment. Statements were rated on a scale of 1 to 9 for the level of agreement. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement (score of 7–9) and ≤ 15% disagreement (score of 1–3). Statistical measures such as content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance (W) were calculated to assess agreement levels.
Results:
Of the 46 assessment-related statements, 17 (37%) reached consensus, though overall pre-treatment assessments showed weak agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.319). Key areas of agreement included the use of the visual analogue scale, numeric rating scale, and validated questionnaires for pre-treatment evaluation. Five statements, such as the use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography for diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus, achieved over 90% agreement. For treatment outcome measurements, 8 of 12 statements (67%) reached a consensus, with moderate agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.513). Validated questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests were recommended for evaluating treatment effects within 12 weeks. While standardized imaging for pulsatile tinnitus and additional clinical tests were strongly recommended, full consensus was not achieved across all imaging modalities.
Conclusion
This study provides actionable recommendations for tinnitus assessment and treatment evaluation, emphasizing the use of standardized tools and individualized approaches based on patient needs. These findings offer a practical framework to enhance consistency and effectiveness in tinnitus management within Korean clinical settings.
8.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Treatment: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Junhui JEONG ; Ho Yun LEE ; Oak-Sung CHOO ; Hantai KIM ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Jae-Hyun SEO ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; In Seok MOON ; Hyun Joon SHIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(18):e75-
Background:
Tinnitus is a bothersome condition associated with various mechanisms of action. Although treatment methods vary according to these mechanisms, standardized guidelines would benefit both patients and clinicians. We conducted a Delphi study, a method that collects expert opinions through multiple rounds of questionnaires, to reach a consensus on tinnitus treatment with professional experts.
Methods:
A two-round modified Delphi survey was conducted to develop a clinical consensus on tinnitus treatment. The experts scored each statement on a scale of 1 (highest disagreement) to 9 (highest agreement) for their level of agreement on tinnitus treatment.Consensus was defined when 75% or more of the participants scored 7–9, and 15% or less scored 1–3. To ensure reliability of the responses, the content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance were evaluated.
Results:
Approximately 19 of 31 statements reached a consensus. All 3 statements reached a consensus regarding the candidates for treatment. Regarding treatment, 3 of 8 statements on medication, 2 of 2 statements on tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and 5 of 7 statements on auditory rehabilitation reached a positive consensus. Although all 6 statements regarding miscellaneous treatment reached a consensus, most were negatively agreed. For treatment with neuromodulation, none of the 5 statements reached a consensus.
Conclusion
The experts reached a high level of consensus on treatment candidates, tinnitus retraining therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, and auditory rehabilitation in this modified Delphi study. The results of this study can provide beneficial and practical information for clinicians regarding the treatment of tinnitus.
9.Radiological Considerations in Diagnosing Angiosarcoma Associated With Lymphedema Following Breast Cancer Surgery
Eun Jung CHOI ; Gwang Min CHAE ; Jinyong SHIN ; Si-Gyun ROH ; Nae-Ho LEE
Journal of Breast Cancer 2025;28(2):119-124
Angiosarcoma associated with lymphedema is a rare soft tissue malignancy that occurs owing to chronic lymphedema, primarily following breast cancer surgery. We present a case of an 83-year-old female who developed angiosarcoma 14 years after undergoing breast cancer surgery. Diagnosis was confirmed through excisional biopsy, histopathological evaluation, and imaging. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse dermal thickening with an enhanced subcutaneous nodular lesion on the right arm. This unusual case emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients with chronic lymphedema post-breast cancer surgery, as early radiologic and clinical detection can facilitate timely intervention and improve outcomes.
10.Consensus Statements on Tinnitus Assessment and Treatment Outcome Evaluation: A Delphi Study by the Korean Tinnitus Study Group
Oak-Sung CHOO ; Jung Mee PARK ; Euyhyun PARK ; Jiwon CHANG ; Min Young LEE ; Ho Yun LEE ; In Seok MOON ; Jae-Jun SONG ; Kyu-Yup LEE ; Jae-Jin SONG ; Eui-Cheol NAM ; Shi Nae PARK ; Hyun Joon SHIM ; Yoon Chan RAH ; Jae-Hyun SEO
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(7):e93-
Background:
Tinnitus is a multifactorial condition with no universally accepted assessment guidelines. The Korean Tinnitus Study Group previously established consensus statements on the definition, classification, and diagnostic tests for tinnitus. As a continuation of this effort, this study aims to establish expert consensus on tinnitus assessment and treatment outcome evaluation, specifically tailored to the Korean clinical context.
Methods:
A modified Delphi method involving 26 otology experts from across Korea was used. A two-round Delphi survey was conducted to evaluate statements related to tinnitus assessment before and after treatment. Statements were rated on a scale of 1 to 9 for the level of agreement. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% agreement (score of 7–9) and ≤ 15% disagreement (score of 1–3). Statistical measures such as content validity ratio and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance (W) were calculated to assess agreement levels.
Results:
Of the 46 assessment-related statements, 17 (37%) reached consensus, though overall pre-treatment assessments showed weak agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.319). Key areas of agreement included the use of the visual analogue scale, numeric rating scale, and validated questionnaires for pre-treatment evaluation. Five statements, such as the use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography for diagnosing pulsatile tinnitus, achieved over 90% agreement. For treatment outcome measurements, 8 of 12 statements (67%) reached a consensus, with moderate agreement (Kendall’s W = 0.513). Validated questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests were recommended for evaluating treatment effects within 12 weeks. While standardized imaging for pulsatile tinnitus and additional clinical tests were strongly recommended, full consensus was not achieved across all imaging modalities.
Conclusion
This study provides actionable recommendations for tinnitus assessment and treatment evaluation, emphasizing the use of standardized tools and individualized approaches based on patient needs. These findings offer a practical framework to enhance consistency and effectiveness in tinnitus management within Korean clinical settings.

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