AUTOMATED AUDITORY BRAINSTEM RESPONSE Meaning and
Definition
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Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) refers to a diagnostic test method used to evaluate the hearing function and neurological status of infants and young children. It involves measuring the electrical responses from the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimuli.
During an AABR test, small electrodes are placed on the baby's scalp, forehead, and behind the ears. These electrodes detect and record the electrical activity generated by the nerves in the auditory pathway when sound is presented to the child. The recorded responses are then analyzed by a specialized computer program to assess the integrity of the auditory system.
The AABR test is based on the principle that when sound is presented to the child, specific electrical responses should be generated in the auditory system. These responses are then displayed as a graph, called an auditory brainstem response waveform. The waveform provides information about the presence and consistency of the responses, which can indicate the overall health of the auditory system.
This automated testing method has several advantages over traditional auditory brainstem response tests. It is quick, objective, and can be performed while the child is asleep, reducing the need for sedation. AABR is particularly useful in diagnosing hearing loss in infants who may not exhibit behavioral responses to sound. It is also used for screening purposes in newborns to identify potential risks or early signs of hearing impairment.
Overall, the automated auditory brainstem response is a valuable diagnostic tool that helps healthcare professionals evaluate the hearing function of infants and young children efficiently and accurately.
