Findings of Acoustic Stapedial Reflex Test in Newborns with and without Risk Factor

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the presence rate of acoustic stapedial reflexes (ASR) and to assess the test-retest reliability of ASR at a 1000 Hz probe tone in newborns with and without risk factor. Materials and Methods: Screening Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emission (TEOAE), Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR), tympanometry and ASR tests were performed on 59 ears with risk factor (research group) and 44 ears without risk factor (control group) within 0 ‒ 2 weeks following birth. And one month later, tympanometry and ASRs measurements were repeated. Results: In terms of ASR thresholds, there is no significant difference between the two groups (p>0.05). Detection rate of ipsilateral ASRs were higher than those of contralateral ASRs in the first assessment for both groups. Conclusion: Ipsilateral ASRs in neonates can be obtained in the early postnatal period, but contralateral ASRs can be detected late, especially one month after birth. Since ASR provides information about entire hearing system, it is an essential diagnostic test in newborns.

Keywords

• acoustic reflex
• newborn
• risk factor