The similarities and differences between distortion-product otoacoustic emission testing instruments and accuracy settings
Abstract
Advanced measures of the auditory system like otoacoustic emission (OAE) testing are essential for highlighting the subtle expressions of hearing loss if clinical care is to remain up to date with current scientific knowledge. The purpose of this study was to compare distortion product OAE (DPOAE) testing across three different measurement systems (Interacoustic Titan, Bio-logic Scout and Vivosonic Integrity) to determine if there are differences in DPOAE testing. Secondly, the study will look to evaluate the effect if varying accuracy settings on DPOAE testing within the Integrity system. DPOAE tests evaluating levels, noise floor levels, probe fit check time and testing time across test frequencies from 2000 to 8000 Hz were compared in a total of twenty normal hearing adult. Findings show that DPOAE results are within normal limits across all devices and protocols. These findings allow audiologist to make more informed decisions when testing OAEs.