ADULT AUDITORY BRAINSTEM RESPONSE (ABR)
The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test measures the synchrony (timing) of the auditory neural pathways.
What information does the ABR provide?
The ABR can identify hearing loss and its possible causes. In addition, careful analysis of the ABR wave patterns can help identify the presence of certain medical conditions that affect hearing, such as tumors, growths along the auditory pathway, or demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.
How is the test done?
Sensors called electrodes are placed on the patient’s scalp or forehead, and on or behind the ears. Earphones are inserted, and a series of clicks are sent to the ears through the earphones. The electrodes pick up electrical energy produced by the auditory nerve and auditory brainstem in response to the sound. A computer averages the signal and produces a waveform that shows the auditory brainstem response. This test is not painful. Patients relax in a reclined chair during the test, and many patients fall asleep.
The test takes about one hour to complete.
Is the ABR reliable?
Yes, however, no single test is always 100% accurate. Therefore, when we make a diagnosis, we take into account the patient’s complete medical history in order to provide an accurate evaluation and a treatment plan that is appropriate for each patient.
Should you have any questions regarding your test procedure, please contact our office and ask to speak with one of the audiologists. If you are unable to keep your appointment, please call the office to reschedule.
Failure to cancel your appointment within 48 hrs will result in a $200 charge.
We want to provide excellent services for our patients; for this reason, we ask our patients not to send their medical questions to us through our social media pages. Patients may send questions via our secure, encrypted server on our patient portal, or they may call our office for assistance.