Case study: Audiometry and ECR profile time convergence

Abstract

Through the follow up of a pediatric implanted patient in a period of time of eighteen months after CI initial activation, comparison of patient hearing threshold obtained by means standard audiometry and an objective method was made. Eighteen months after implantation Electric Cochlear Response (ECR) test and audiometry profile showed time convergence. This make think in the possibility to obtain an implanted patient audiometry estimation through ECR test. Because of its objective nature ECR test offers some advantages over standard behavioral audiometry. Not being patient health condition dependent, make possible to obtain an estimation of the patient hearing threshold since the very first time of the cochlear implant turning on. This feature allows to reduce the necessary time extension to reach a suitable electrical stimulation that provide a safe, useful and comfortable audition to implanted patient.