Evoked Potential Testing
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
Electrocochleography (ECOG)
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
A Diagnostic Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) is a computerized "hearing test" which is used to measure the "brain waves" your ear produces when it hears sounds. Sometimes an ABR is called BAER (brainstem auditory evoked response).
An ABR test is ordered when complete results cannot be obtained with a routine hearing test (audiogram). If there is a hearing loss, the ABR helps to determine the severity of the problem.
An ABR is often needed when a simple hearing test shows a certain type of hearing loss pattern. The test is extremely helpful in ruling out or confirming auditory nerve lesions such as acoustic neuroma. In addition, it is helpful in diagnosing demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
The test, whether diagnostic or threshold, usually takes one to two hours.
It requires that you lie very still so the computer will not pick up any muscle movement. Flat electrodes (or wires) will be taped to your forehead and ears. These electrodes will measure the response to sound from the ears and brain. You will not experience any discomfort during the test or after.
While you are asleep or resting quietly, you will hear clicking sounds through earplugs, and your brain's response to the sound will be recorded by a computer and analyzed by the audiologist.
On the day of the ABR test, you may take your typical medications and follow your normal routine. Upon completion of the test, you are free to return to your daily activities.
Electrocochleographpy (ECOG)
ECOG testing is beneficial in the diagnosis, assessment, and monitoring of certain otologic/neurotologic disorders or conditions.
ECOG testing is typically ordered to objectively identify, monitor, and assess Meniere's disease and endolymphatic hydrops.
The ECOG test may take up to two hours to complete. This test requires you lie very still, so muscle movement is not picked up by the computer.
To ensure the accuracy of the test, you are asked to discontinue the use of certain medications 48 hours prior to testing. These medications include any medicines taken to prevent or control dizziness (i.e. Meclizine, etc), and any diuretics.
Consult with your physician before discontinuing these medications. All other medications may be taken as usual.
Your ears will be cleansed/irrigated with a small amount of saline solution. Flat electrodes (or wires) will be taped to your forehead and one earlobe. A flexible, soft cotton tip electrode will be gently inserted into the test ear and will rest lightly on your eardrum.
A feeling of pressure may be noticed during the placement of this electrode. You will not experience any discomfort during the test.
While you are resting quietly, you will hear clicking sounds through earplugs, and your brain's response to the sound will be recorded by a computer and analyzed by the audiologist.
Each ear is tested separately; therefore, the above mentioned steps will be repeated in the opposite ear.
Upon completion of the test you are free to return to your daily activities.