Video Otoscopy
Video Otoscopy is a visual inspection of the child’s ears which is shown on the computer screen and can be discussed with the parents and child. This is particularly interesting for children who have had grommets fitted.
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is used to test the condition of the middle ear and mobility of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) by creating variations of air pressure in the ear canal.
It is not a hearing test, but rather a measure of energy transmission through the middle ear, and results should be viewed, where possible, in conjunction with pure tone audiometry.
Tympanometry is a helpful tool in the diagnosis of Otitis Media by demonstrating the presence of a middle ear effusion (Glue Ear), the most common hearing problem in children, and therefore a valuable component of the audiometric evaluation.
Free Field Audiometry
Free field audiometry using a calibrated handheld free field audiometer means we are able to establish a reaction to sounds at varying frequencies and loudness levels using pure or warble tones.
The Parrot Plus
The Parrot Plus is a handheld, portable system that allows us to conduct calibrated word tests, specifically designed for the assessment of children. A series of different word tests can be played against different levels of background noise, including classroom babble. The tests we can use are:-
The McCormick Toy Test which uses 14 paired words with similar vowel sounds but differing consonants. The words used are specifically chosen to be easily recognised by young children (18 months+).
The Manchester Picture Test, used with children and young adults, is in the format of six word lists, each containing six words, using a picture book to identify the correct word.
The AB Word List consists of 10 lists of 8 words. Each word has been selected because they contain three phonemes constructed as consonant – vowel – consonant with 30 phonemes, 10 vowels and 20 consonants present in each list. This is a test used for older children through to adulthood.
Computer generated sound bytes
We use a selection of sound bytes generated from the computer and played from different speakers around the room. The sounds are chosen to present a range of different frequencies and are also a useful tool to attract the child’s attention. This an effective way of testing the child’s ability to establish the direction of sound.
Air and Bone Conduction Audiometry
If we are able to conduct a full audiometric hearing test we will do so, as this will provide a true picture of the child’s hearing ability. Our decision to conduct the full hearing test will depend on the child’s age and concentration levels.
