Acoustic Reflex Testing: Methodology, Interpretation and Clinical Uses-Acoustic Reflex Testing: Methodology, Interpretation and Clinical Uses Slides

Acoustic Reflex Testing: Methodology, Interpretation and Clinical Uses Slides

Pdf Summary

The document is a presentation on acoustic reflex testing, specifically focusing on the methodology, interpretation, and clinical uses of this testing. The presenter is Ted Venema, PhD, a faculty member at Ozarks Technical Community College. The agenda for the presentation includes a quick review of tympanometry, the different types of acoustic reflexes (contralateral and ipsilateral), interpreting acoustic reflexes, and a Q&A session for any questions. <br /><br />The presentation begins with a review of tympanometry, which consists of four tests: tympanogram types, static compliance, physical volume of the ear canal, and acoustic reflexes. The function of the middle ear is to increase sound pressure, and tympanometry measures this increase in decibels. The key concept behind tympanometry is that air pressure must be even on both sides of the eardrum for the middle ear to be most efficient. <br /><br />The presentation then moves on to acoustic reflexes, which involve the contralateral and ipsilateral reflex arcs. The purpose of acoustic reflexes is to improve hearing while speaking by reducing the upward spread of masking. Acoustic reflexes are strongest for low frequencies and are measured as temporary decreases in compliance. The presentation discusses how conductive hearing loss tends to obliterate acoustic reflexes, and how absent acoustic reflexes increase with severe sensorineural hearing loss. <br /><br />The interpretation of acoustic reflexes is also covered, including how the presence or absence of acoustic reflexes can indicate different types of hearing pathology. The presentation also mentions the relationship between acoustic reflexes and speech discrimination. The presentation concludes with a Q&A session and contact information for the presenter.

Keywords

acoustic reflex testing

methodology

interpretation

clinical uses

Ted Venema

tympanometry

contralateral reflex

ipsilateral reflex

hearing pathology

speech discrimination