What is Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) and Auditory Steady State Response (ASSR)?
Hearing tests for children are routinely done using a behavioral type test, for example, a sound is presented and the child looks towards the source of sound; or children are conditioned to drop a toy in a container when sound is presented. However, there can be instances when the child may be too young or uncooperative for this type of test. Because of this, an ABR and/or ASSR is done instead of, or in addition to, other hearing tests. In these tests, the child has to be very quiet and still such that it is better done when the child is sleeping or sedated.
What is Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) and Auditory Steady State Response (ASSR)?
Hearing tests for children are routinely done using a behavioral type test, for example, a sound is presented and the child looks towards the source of sound; or children are conditioned to drop a toy in a container when sound is presented. However, there can be instances when the child may be too young or uncooperative for this type of test. Because of this, an ABR and/or ASSR is done instead of, or in addition to, other hearing tests. In these tests, the child has to be very quiet and still such that it is better done when the child is sleeping or sedated.
The ABR tests the integrity of the hearing pathway up to the brainstem and the ASSR is useful in giving frequency specific information.
How is it done?
Prior to the procedure, an otoscopic exam is done to check the ears of the child. If there are signs of cerumen impaction (too much wax in the ears) or infection, the child will be referred back to their physician for further evaluation.
While the child is asleep, electrodes are placed on his/her forehead, mastoid (a bone prominence found behind the ear) or earlobes. An earphone is inserted in his/her ears from where sounds are introduced.
The electrodes pickup the brain’s response to the stimulus and the machine records it in a waveform.
In adults, the same procedure may be done awake, as long as he/she is quiet and unnecessary movements are minimized.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure generally takes one to two hours.
What is experienced by the patient during the procedure?
He/she may hear sounds in varying levels of tone and volume. During the procedure, you may hear sounds in varying levels of tone and volume.
When will the result of the examination be known? 2-3 days?
Results are available in two to three days after the test.
What are the benefits of the procedure?
These two tests (ABR and ASSR) evaluate the auditory pathway and estimate the hearing level of an individual (child or adult).
What are the risks of the procedure?
There are no risks involved in the procedure but your child may feel some discomfort from the prolonged use of the earphones and his/her stationary position.
How can The Medical City help you?
The Medical City has a complete roster of Otolaryngologists who may assess and manage hearing loss. Audiologists also help in facilitating the hearing tests. These special procedures are available at the ENT Center, Hearing and Dizziness Unit.
Note: This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment. If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.
References:
- The Medical City Department of Otolaryngology
- Gelfand, S.A. (2009) Essentials of Audiology, 3rd Ed. New York: Thiemes Medical Publication.
- Katz, J., Handbook of Clinical Audiology, 6th edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009
For more information, please call:
ENT CENTER
Tel. nos. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6251
CENTER FOR PATIENT PARTNERSHIP
Tel. nos. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6444
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