Tympanometry & Audiometry

Tympanometry:

• • Purpose: Tympanometry is a test that assesses the mobility of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the function of the middle ear. It is particularly useful in identifying issues related to the middle ear, such as fluid accumulation or problems with the eardrum.
  • Procedure: During a tympanometry test, a small probe is placed into the ear canal. The probe changes air pressure in the ear, and the device measures how the eardrum responds to these pressure changes. The results are typically plotted on a tympanogram, a graph that shows the compliance of the eardrum as a function of pressure.
  • Applications: Tympanometry is often used to diagnose conditions like otitis media (middle ear infection), eustachian tube dysfunction, and to evaluate the function of the ear in individuals, especially children.

Audiometry:

• • • Purpose: Audiometry is a comprehensive hearing assessment that measures a person’s ability to hear sounds at different frequencies (pitches) and different sound levels (intensities). It provides valuable information about the type, degree, and configuration of a person’s hearing loss.
    • Procedure: Audiometry is typically conducted in a soundproof booth. The patient wears headphones and is asked to respond to various sounds, such as tones or words, by pressing a button or raising a hand. The audiologist uses an audiometer to deliver sounds at different frequencies and intensities, generating an audiogram that represents the individual’s hearing thresholds.
    • Applications: Audiometry is used to diagnose and characterize hearing loss, determine the type of hearing loss (conductive, sensorineural, or mixed), assess the severity of the loss, and establish the patient’s hearing capabilities for fitting hearing aids.