Papers Published
Abstract:
Using a newly developed brain stem evoked response (BSER) parameter in preliminary testing, the authors can individually identify the auditory thresholds of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz and 2000 Hz to within 15-25 db. The authors have developed an accurate method of breaking down the complex BSER curve, using a successive approximation technique, into its individual component curves. Each component curve is thought to represent the isolated electrical activity of one generator site. The component curves are the shape of normal distribution curves. The area under each individual component curve is the new parameter which the authors feel represents the isolated electrical activity of one generator site. Using this parameter a clinical trial was performed. Constant ipsilateral pure tone masking was superimposed upon the stimulus clicks in the test ears of two subjects. The constant ipsilateral masking was superimposed at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz and 2000 Hz. A statistically significant decrease in the area of component wave II (one masking sound caused an increased area) was seen when the pure tone masking sound became at least 15-25 db louder than the patient's threshold at that individual frequency. These preliminary results give reason to think that a method of quantification of BSER responses has been found. More importantly, a method of identifying individual audiometric thresholds from 500 Hz throughout 2000 Hz to within 15-25 db has been found. These findings need extensive further testing.